Israel has blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza, resulting in a dramatic surge in the prices of essential goods. Flour and vegetable costs in the Gaza Strip have increased more than 100-fold, leaving vital living materials undelivered due to the closure of key crossings.
The Kerem Shalom, Erez, and Zikim crossings have been shut for cargo, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). This closure means that thousands of tents and other critical supplies remain stuck outside Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the measure aims to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal, which he claims was proposed by the United States.
Tom Fletcher, the UN emergency relief coordinator, expressed his concern on social media, describing the decision as \"indeed alarming.\" He emphasized the necessity of adhering to international humanitarian law, calling for immediate access to deliver lifesaving aid and the release of hostages.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged all parties to prevent a return to hostilities in Gaza and to ensure that humanitarian aid flows back into the region without delay. Additionally, the UN Children's Fund has warned that the cessation of aid deliveries will have devastating effects on children and families struggling to survive in Gaza.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
