Gaza’s continued existence is in danger due to a dire humanitarian crisis only a month into the war. Gaza is literally on the brink of collapse, barely managing to hold onto what little remains. There is a gradual decline in the likelihood of full humanitarian aid relief. Consequently, each hour that passes determines whether someone lives or dies.
This crisis has been brewing since Israel imposed an import and export blockade on the Gaza Strip in 2005. Today, the blockade determines when and how humanitarian aid reaches Gaza. The limited humanitarian access to Gaza is a “catastrophic failing” of the international community, stated the head of the Red Cross.
Basic supplies are in dire shortage, with Palestinians scrambling for survival. ICRC described the situation in Gaza as “abhorrent”. Emergency services are beyond their maximum capacity. Gaza’s Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, which serves cancer patients, has shut down after running out of fuel. Medical facilities are facing rapidly increasing strain from disease outbreaks and casualties. Lack of fuel, water, and medical supplies further worsens the situation. The UNRWA has termed this, “force-displacement and a humanitarian tragedy of colossal proportions.”
Schools and mosques are also bombing targets. A Shari refugee camp where thousands are sheltered might be next on the list. Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank and Tulkram refugee camp were both attacked recently. After the Jabalia refugee camp bombing, it is evident that no place is truly safe. The Islamic Relief said, “in recent days we have seen bombing of refugee camps, school shelters and ambulances carrying injured civilians…” Fear and panic have gripped civilians, who no longer know where to go for safety. UN-run emergency shelters are already in critical condition.
Diplomatic measures to mitigate the situation have proven to be unsuccessful. Repeated calls for a ceasefire have been blatantly disregarded. As such, Jordan, Bolivia, Colombia, and Chile have ended their diplomatic missions and recalled their ambassadors. Thus, condemning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza caused by Israel. Biden and Netanyahu believe that a ceasefire is impossible as it would allow Hamas to recalibrate. As such, tactical pauses have been suggested with Israel reluctant to consider it. The diplomatic deadlock leaves no foreseeable solution that will appease all the parties involved.
Notably, the Rafah crossing has played a pivotal role in easing the crisis. A total of 213 aid trucks have crossed into Gaza through it to date. The hope is that more will also cross over. In addition, Egypt is preparing to facilitate the reception and evacuation of 7,000 foreign citizens from Gaza through the Rafah crossing. Ultimately, the fate of Gaza’s livelihood remains in the balance.
Last Updated: NOV 2023
