The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has reported an increase in food supplies to Gaza following a US-brokered ceasefire. However, the volume of aid remains significantly below the daily target of 2,000 tonnes, only reaching approximately 750 metric tonnes per day due to limited operational crossings into the Palestinian territory.
The situation in Gaza has been dire, exacerbated by the aftermath of a protracted conflict that has left much of the region in ruins. According to WFP spokesperson Abeer Etefa, the urgent need for increased humanitarian access cannot be overstated. Currently, only two crossings into Gaza are functional—the Karem Abu Salem in the south and al-Karara in the center. Etefa emphasized that in order to effectively meet the scale of humanitarian needs, all border crossings must be utilized.
The WFP continues to advocate for the sustainability of the ceasefire negotiated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Etefa insisted that maintaining peace is essential for saving lives and addressing the looming famine affecting northern Gaza. A comprehensive 20-point plan initiated by the U.S. aims to facilitate full aid access to the region, though the specifics remain to be clarified.
As part of its ongoing effort to alleviate food insecurity, the WFP has increased the number of food distribution points in Gaza from five to 26, although this still falls short of the 145 planned across the territory. Many of these distribution sites are located in the southern and central areas of the Gaza Strip.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the Rafah border crossing with Egypt would remain closed until further notice, the situation remains fluid. Nevertheless, the humanitarian response is gradually expanding, with additional aid expected to come through various designated crossings.
Recent reports indicate that certain nutrition supplies, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women, have made their way into northern Gaza via the southern route. However, WFP officials acknowledge that the current aid levels are insufficient.
Given the uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire’s durability, households in Gaza have begun to stockpile food supplies. The rationing reflects a cautious approach to ensure sustenance amid apprehension about future aid flows. Overall, the WFP emphasizes the need for continuous advocacy and support for humanitarian access in Gaza to prevent further deterioration of the living conditions for its residents.
#WorldNews #MiddleEastNews