In a latest shocking development, the UN Agency for Palestine Refugees said they have been denied providing lifesaving assistance to northern Gaza.
The UN body, UNRWA, the largest organization with the highest reach to displaced communities in Gaza, condemned the outrageous and intentional move by the Israeli authorities in a statement released.
It said the action will have a devastating impact on the people of Gaza who have been reeling through famine and other humanitarian crises.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Commissioner-General of UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, while calling for the restrictions to be lifted, said, “Despite the tragedy unfolding under our watch, the Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any UNRWA food convoy to the north. This is outrageous and makes it intentional to obstruct lifesaving assistance during a man-made famine.”
“By preventing UNRWA from fulfilling its mandate in Gaza, the clock will tick faster towards famine and many more will die of hunger, dehydration, and lack of shelter. This cannot happen; it would only stain our collective humanity,” he added.
It is pertinent to note that amidst Israeli aggression, the situation in Gaza had turned horrifying, exacerbating catastrophic impacts on the lives of the 300,000 people present there.
With the appalling conditions on the ground for civilians, including lack of proper food, health facilities, and shelter, world bodies and leaders emphasized that increased aid flows will help alleviate the famine sufferings predicted in the northern part of the Strip. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report on Gaza Strip stated last week that famine is imminent in the northern part of the Strip and is expected to occur between now and May in the two northern governorates.
However, with the latest Israeli move, world bodies expressed fear that the decision to block its food convoys to the north only pushes thousands closer to famine. The move will undermine access to food, shelter, primary health care, and education at an extremely difficult time.
