After an 11-week blockade, a glimmer of hope arrived in Gaza on May 21, 2025, as 90 lorry loads of aid finally crossed the border. The delivery follows a three-day delay, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. However, concerns linger about whether this is enough to alleviate the widespread suffering, with some critics decrying what they call a ‘weaponized blockade.’
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric emphasized that the aid trickling into Gaza remains insufficient to meet the overwhelming humanitarian needs. 
This comes against a backdrop of a healthcare system on the brink of collapse. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that four major hospitals have ceased operations due to their proximity to ongoing hostilities. Only 19 out of 36 hospitals are currently functional, struggling with critical shortages and security concerns. A staggering 94% of hospitals in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed.
Malnutrition and Starvation
The World Food Programme (WFP) has raised alarms about severe malnutrition among children, with over 70,000 facing acute levels due to limited aid access. Tragically, on May 24, 2025, a four-year-old boy died of starvation in Gaza City, according to the Gaza Government Media Office, highlighting the devastating consequences of the ongoing crisis.
Ongoing Conflict and Casualties
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilians. On May 24, an Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis killed nine children of Gaza doctor Alaa al-Najjar. 
The Israeli army stated it was targeting Hamas operatives and is reviewing the incident. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that at least 53,901 Palestinians have been killed and 122,593 wounded in the ongoing war. The Government Media Office has updated the death toll to over 61,700, presuming thousands missing under the rubble are dead.
Healthcare System on the Brink
The WHO has documented 28 attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza since October 2023, further crippling the region’s ability to provide essential medical services. 
As the crisis deepens, the international community is increasingly calling for unimpeded aid access and a cessation of hostilities to prevent further loss of life and suffering.