The World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended its staff movements in the Gaza Strip following an attack on its convoy near an Israeli checkpoint. The UN food agency reported that on Tuesday evening, two of its armored vehicles were escorting a convoy of humanitarian aid lorries when one vehicle was struck by gunfire at the Wadi Gaza bridge. Although no personnel were injured, the vehicle sustained significant damage from multiple bullets.
The WFP described the incident as unprecedented, given that it was the first time one of its vehicles was directly targeted near an IDF checkpoint despite having obtained the necessary clearances. The agency emphasized that the escalating violence in Gaza is severely impeding its ability to deliver essential aid. Cindy McCain, the WFP’s executive director, condemned the attack as “totally unacceptable” and urged all parties involved to ensure the safety of aid workers.
The attack on WFP’s convoy adds to the ongoing challenges faced by humanitarian operations in Gaza. Earlier, the UN had announced that its aid efforts were severely hampered by Israeli military evacuation orders affecting parts of the Gaza Strip. These orders led to the rapid relocation of UN staff and affected several key facilities, including warehouses and medical centers. The Israeli military cited the need to protect civilians and target Hamas operatives as reasons for the evacuation.
The UN’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, confirmed that while humanitarian aid efforts continue, the conditions have made operations extremely difficult. Up to 88.5% of Gaza has been under evacuation orders since the onset of the conflict, forcing about 1.8 million people into a shrinking humanitarian zone. This area, covering approximately 41 square kilometers, is struggling with severe infrastructure and service deficiencies.
In addition to these issues, Gaza has been facing a health crisis. A recent outbreak of polio, the first case in 25 years, has prompted the UN to plan a large-scale vaccination campaign targeting 640,000 children. However, the conflict has complicated these efforts, prompting the UN to request two seven-day humanitarian pauses to facilitate the vaccination drive.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) defended their actions, stating that evacuation orders were necessary for “essential operations” against Hamas and its infrastructure. They also pledged to work with international organizations to find alternative locations for aid operations and ensure the continuation of humanitarian support.
As the situation remains volatile, local reports indicate continued casualties, with recent airstrikes resulting in deaths in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. The conflict’s intensification underscores the urgent need for effective humanitarian responses and the protection of aid workers in Gaza.
