“Gaza on Brink of Humanitarian Crisis as Israel Imposes Siege.”
The Gaza Strip faces a looming humanitarian crisis as Israel imposes a “complete siege” in response to Hamas attacks. Supplies, including electricity, food, fuel, and water, are being cut off, with aid unable to reach the enclave since Saturday. Devastation from Israeli airstrikes is evident in deserted streets strewn with rubble. Over 500 casualties have been reported in these attacks, adding to the hardship of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, 80% of whom depend on humanitarian aid due to ongoing hostilities.
While Hamas governs Gaza, Israel controls its airspace, shoreline, and border crossings, along with Egypt, which restricts movement in and out. Supplies, including food and medicine, have been halted by Israel since the attacks began. Electricity, internet, and essential food and water are dwindling, and fuel is expected to run out in 24 to 72 hours. The UN’s OCHA warns of dwindling fuel supplies within days.
Even before these restrictions, Gaza faced food insecurity, movement limitations, and water shortages. Israel’s Defence Minister announced the “complete siege,” cutting off electricity, food, water, and gas, characterizing the situation as a fight against “animals.” Water supplies to Gaza were also cut off by Israel’s infrastructure minister.
The Palestinian health ministry reported shortages of medicines, medical supplies, and fuel, urging international intervention to restore power and provide emergency supplies. Israel’s retaliatory airstrikes have resulted in over 511 deaths and 2,750 injuries, with a particularly heavy barrage on Sunday night. Civilian areas, including refugee camps, a United Nations school, mosques, and homes, have been hit. The UN reports 123,538 internally displaced people in Gaza, with 73,000 sheltering in schools due to fear, protection concerns, and home destruction.
