Gaza City – The United Nations has issued a stark warning that the ongoing aid blockade in Gaza could trigger an irreversible famine, pushing the already desperate population further into darkness. This alarming assessment comes as reports of starvation-related deaths continue to surface, and international scrutiny intensifies over the restrictions on humanitarian access.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening, with reports indicating a baby girl recently died from malnutrition and dehydration in Gaza City due to the ongoing Israeli blockade. At least 57 Palestinians have already died from starvation due to the blockade. Compounding the crisis, over 3,000 trucks carrying essential humanitarian relief are being blocked from entering Gaza, exacerbating the already dire conditions for civilians.
Ongoing Attacks and Casualties
Amidst the blockade, Israeli forces continue attacks across Gaza. An Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Gaza City killed at least three Palestinians. At least 43 people have been killed in Israeli attacks since early Friday. Airstrikes on homes in central Gaza killed at least 12 people, including children.
Aid Ship Attacked
Adding to the complexity, a ship carrying aid to Gaza was hit by drones in international waters. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition alleges Israel was responsible for the drone attack on the aid ship, raising concerns about the safety of aid deliveries and further complicating efforts to alleviate the crisis.
Rising Death Toll
The casualty tolls continue to climb, with the Health Ministry reporting that Israel’s war on Gaza has killed at least 52,495 Palestinians and wounded 118,366. The Gaza Government Media Office updated the death toll to more than 61,700, with thousands missing under rubble presumed dead. Since Israel resumed its campaign in Gaza on March 18th, at least 2,326 people have been killed.
International Condemnation
The international community is increasingly vocal in its condemnation. The UN Human Rights Chief warned that starving civilians as a military tactic constitutes a war crime. The ICJ concluded public hearings into Israel’s obligations regarding allowing UN agencies and other relief groups to work in the Palestinian territory.
Conclusion
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the aid blockade exacerbating the effects of ongoing conflict and pushing the population to the brink of irreversible famine. The international community’s response and the actions of involved parties in the coming days will be critical in determining the future of Gaza and its people.