Humanitarian agencies have expressed alarm over the inadequate flow of aid to Gaza nearly four weeks after a ceasefire was established, highlighting the urgent need for assistance as winter looms and hunger persists in the region. Despite the truce intended to facilitate the delivery of critical supplies, reports indicate that only half of the necessary food is reaching the 2.3 million residents of Gaza, who have largely lost their homes due to ongoing violence.
According to the World Food Programme, the expected distribution of aid is significantly below requirements, with an umbrella group of Palestinian agencies stating that current volumes fall between 25% and 33% of what is needed. Although Israel claims it is complying with the ceasefire conditions, allowing an average of 600 trucks daily to enter Gaza, local authorities assert that the actual number of trucks delivering supplies is only about 145 per day.
Residents like Manal Salem, who lives in a tent in Khan Younis, lament the dire conditions, mentioning a total lack of proper shelter, water, food, and funds as the winter months approach. The United Nations’ agency OCHA noted some improvements recently, revealing that 50% of families have reported increased access to food, especially in southern Gaza, where distributions have been more successful.
However, malnutrition is still a significant concern, with 10% of children in Gaza assessed as acutely malnourished, a slight decrease from previous months. Despite the entrance of 20,000 metric tons of food aid since the ceasefire, which only covers half of the population’s needs, there is still a chronic shortage of diverse foods essential for health, with many households relying solely on cereals and dry food.
Abeer Etefa, a spokesperson for the World Food Programme, emphasized the urgency as winter approaches, warning of pressing needs for both food and fuel. Cooking gas shortages have forced over 60% of Gazans to cook using waste, exposing them to health risks. As temperatures drop, shelter becomes increasingly critical, with tents showing signs of significant wear and instability.
International efforts continue to focus on improving access to humanitarian aid, recognizing the resilience of the Gazan people in the face of overwhelming adversity. The ongoing dialogue and advocacy for safe delivery of assistance could pave the way for improvements and hopefully bring relief to those enduring extreme hardships as winter sets in.