In brief
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) announced it has exhausted its food stocks in Gaza after Israel's blockade delayed humanitarian aid for over seven weeks. WFP delivered its last supplies to hot meal kitchens, which are now on the brink of depleting their reserves. Following the breakdown of a two-month ceasefire, Israel restricted aid on March 2 and subsequently engaged in military operations to pressure Hamas for hostage releases. The UN cites Israel's obligations under international law to ensure consistent supply access for the 2.1 million Palestinians in Gaza, while Israel maintains it is meeting its legal responsibilities.
The ongoing blockade—lasting longer than any previous closures—has significantly inflated food prices, with essential commodities seeing a price increase of 1,400%. Medical supplies are also critically low. With only half of the population receiving meals, the situation for the most vulnerable, including children and elderly individuals, is increasingly dire. Additionally, the WFP underscores the urgent need for border openings to facilitate the delivery of over 116,000 tonnes of food aid currently waiting at aid corridors. The Israeli foreign ministry refuted claims of a supply shortage, asserting that aid has entered Gaza as required.Hamas rejected an Israeliproposal for a new ceasefire, preferring to negotiate for the return of all hostages in exchange for an end to hostilities. The conflict, which escalated following a deadly cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 51,000 casualties in Gaza, according to local health officials. The erosion of civilian support systems and critical shortages raise alarms for an impending humanitarian collapse if the blockade persists.
