UN warns of no food aid reaching northern Gaza since Oct. 1
Palestinian residents, carrying their personal belongings with them, are on their way to migrate for safer areas following the Israeli army's orders evacuation of the area called D5 in Gaza City, Gaza on October 12, 2024. (Dawoud Abo Alkas - Anadolu Agency)
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) reported on Saturday that no food aid has reached northern Gaza since Oct. 1, raising concerns of a growing hunger crisis as Israel’s military operations intensify in the region.
Humanitarian access severely restricted
Antoine Renard, WFP country director for Palestinian territories, stated that the main border crossing into northern Gaza has been closed for nearly two weeks, severely restricting the delivery of essential food supplies. “The north is basically cut off and we’re not able to operate there,” Renard told the Associated Press (AP).
The closure coincides with Israel’s ongoing ground and air operations in Gaza, leading to the shutdown of many food distribution points, kitchens, and bakeries in the northern region.
Additionally, the World Food Programme (WFP) reported that the sole operational bakery in the area was struck by an explosive munition, igniting a fire and worsening the food shortages.
Thousands trapped without aid
The U.N. Palestinian Refugee Agency (UNRWA) estimates that around 400,000 people are trapped in northern Gaza due to the ongoing conflict. As food supplies dwindle, the WFP has warned that the situation for displaced families could become dire if the military escalation continues.
Accusations of starvation campaigns
The food crisis in Gaza has sparked international concern. Last month, the U.N.’s independent investigator on the right to food accused Israel of carrying out a “starvation campaign” against Palestinians.
Israel has denied the accusation, stating that it has allowed significant quantities of food and humanitarian aid into Gaza. Cogat, the Israeli military body overseeing aid distribution, said in a statement that aid coordinated with international organizations will continue to be allowed into the northern Gaza Strip.
Limited food supplies nearing exhaustion
The WFP said it had distributed its last remaining food stocks, including canned food, wheat flour, high-energy biscuits, and nutrition supplements, to shelters and health facilities in Gaza City and other northern areas.
However, it remains uncertain how long these supplies will last under the current conditions.
