UN chief warns Gaza is entering a critical phase of war amid escalating humanitarian crisis and food shortages for Palestinians.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached alarming proportions, with the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres characterizing the current situation as one of the most severe phases in the protracted conflict. Guterres emphasized that the ongoing military operations and sustained blockade imposed by Israel are exerting immense pressure on the Palestinian population, pushing them to the brink of famine.

In a recent statement, Guterres highlighted that for nearly 80 days, the blockade has significantly restricted the entry of critical international aid into Gaza. He stated that the scale of human suffering is unprecedented, noting that “the entire population of Gaza is facing the risk of famine.” The easing of the blockade has seen only a limited influx of supplies, with Guterres describing the amount of aid as insufficient to meet the urgent needs of the people.

The Secretary-General further condemned the intense military campaign, which has resulted in catastrophic death and destruction. Humanitarian access remains severely hampered, with around 80 percent of Gaza designated as a militarized zone or subjected to evacuation orders. Guterres cautioned that without immediate and sustained access for aid, the consequences for civilians would be dire.

Reports from Gaza underscore the dire predicament faced by Palestinians as they strive to secure basic necessities. Food and drinking water remain scarce, and community kitchens, which offer meager rations, are overwhelmed with people who wait in long lines for any available assistance. The reported levels of humanitarian aid over the past few days are woefully inadequate, failing to address the escalating crisis precipitated by months of conflict.

The recent violence has led to the tragic loss of more than 76 Palestinian lives in just a few days, a part of a larger toll attributed to the ongoing hostilities since October 7, 2023. Estimates indicate that over 53,000 Palestinians have perished as a result of the conflict, with the majority of casualties being women and children.

Despite Israel’s assertions that approximately 300 trucks have entered Gaza through the Karem Abu Salem crossing, the reality on the ground reflects significant challenges. The United Nations reports that only about a third of those deliveries have reached warehouses due to the chaotic security situation. This figure starkly contrasts with the more than 500 trucks that were able to deliver supplies daily prior to the outbreak of hostilities.

The establishment of a new humanitarian delivery mechanism, supported by the United States and operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), aims to facilitate the distribution of aid. However, the United Nations has expressed reservations about its compliance with essential humanitarian standards, asserting that participation is contingent on adherence to international humanitarian principles.

Guterres reiterated the UN’s readiness to assist, underlining that substantial supplies are on standby, awaiting delivery. He has made a fervent appeal for life-saving aid aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Gazan populace, urging for the implementation of effective and timely solutions.

This ongoing crisis highlights the urgent need for a concerted international response to address the profound humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza.

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