Background and Context
The United Nations (UN) has expressed deep concern over the depletion of food and essential supplies in northern Gaza, where hundreds of thousands are facing starvation following Israel’s closure of the sole border crossing last week.
Israel initiated its announced ground offensive into Gaza City, in the north, on Tuesday and is intensifying efforts to clear the city of civilians by opening an additional route leading southward. However, many residents are reluctant to comply with Israel’s orders due to the dangers of travel, poor conditions, lack of food in the southern region, and fear of permanent displacement.
UN’s Statement
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated in a press release, “There is significant concern about the exhaustion of fuel and food reserves within days, as there are currently no direct entry points for aid in northern Gaza, and the south-to-north supply chain is becoming increasingly difficult due to growing road congestion and insecurity.”
Border Closure Details
The Zikim border crossing was closed on September 12, and since then, no aid organizations have been able to import supplies.
The Israeli military did not respond immediately to a request for comment. Late on Tuesday, they stated that humanitarian aid would be allowed into northern Gaza without providing further details.
Israel’s Position
Israel controls all access points to Gaza and claims that it permits sufficient humanitarian aid into the territory, which has been in conflict with Palestinian militants Hamas for nearly two years. Israel accuses Hamas of diverting aid, a claim denied by the militants.
Global Hunger Watchdog’s Assessment
A global hunger watchdog reported last month that Gaza City and its surrounding areas were officially experiencing famine, with the likelihood of it spreading.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation in northern Gaza? Hundreds of thousands are facing starvation due to the depletion of food and essential supplies following Israel’s closure of the sole border crossing.
- Why are people reluctant to leave northern Gaza? Many residents fear the dangers of travel, poor conditions, lack of food in the southern region, and permanent displacement.
- What did the UN express concerning the crisis? The UN expressed deep concern over the exhaustion of fuel and food reserves within days, as there are currently no direct entry points for aid in northern Gaza.
- What is Israel’s stance on the border closure? Israel claims it permits sufficient humanitarian aid into Gaza, accusing Hamas of diverting the aid.
- What did the global hunger watchdog report about Gaza? The global hunger watchdog reported that Gaza City and its surroundings were officially experiencing famine, with the likelihood of it spreading.
