Israel Blocks Gaza Aid, UN Warns of Crisis
The blockade has left thousands of people in Gaza without access to basic necessities, including food and electricity, and has raised concerns about the potential for a return to pre-ceasefire conditions, with the UN warning of a "dangerous vacuum" in the occupied Palestinian territory if aid is not restored.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza as Israel blocks all food supplies for the 10th day, with the agency's chief calling it a "weaponisation of humanitarian aid".
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini has expressed concern over the critical situation in Gaza, stating that aid is essential to maintain progress made during the ceasefire and meet people's basic needs. The agency's financial situation is also precarious due to funding cuts, including from the US, which stopped contributing to UNRWA in January 2024. Lazzarini has urged for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza again to prevent a return to pre-ceasefire conditions.
The blockade has prompted widespread criticism, with the Palestinian Authority condemning the move as an "escalation in the genocide" in Gaza. The UK government has urged Israel to restore the electricity supply, warning that it could violate international law, while Germany has warned of a fresh humanitarian crisis in Gaza. UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese has called the move a "genocide alert" and said countries not imposing sanctions on Israel were aiding a preventable genocide.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the blockade exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The international community has been urged to take action to prevent a further deterioration of the situation and to ensure that humanitarian aid is allowed into Gaza to meet the basic needs of the population.
