Urgent Call to Avert Famine in Gaza: WFP Warns of Humanitarian Crisis

The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has urged swift intervention to prevent famine in the Gaza Strip, citing severe restrictions on humanitarian aid. Israeli military operations and control of entry points exacerbate the crisis, threatening access to the 94,000 tonnes of food ready for delivery.

The U.N. World Food Program (WFP) issued an urgent plea on Tuesday for immediate intervention to prevent a looming famine in the Gaza Strip. The humanitarian situation is dire, exacerbated by stringent restrictions on aid delivery that could soon lead to a worsening crisis.

This month, a global monitor reported that the entire Palestinian enclave stands at risk of famine. Israeli military actions have compounded concerns, hindering crucial humanitarian access. The WFP, the U.N.'s dedicated food agency, highlighted that the deteriorating situation in northern Gaza threatens to impact a larger population unless conditions improve significantly.

WFP disclosed it has 94,000 tonnes of food prepared in Egypt and Jordan, sufficient to feed one million people for four months. However, limited entry points and safety concerns have hampered delivery. Since Israel's control of the Rajah crossing with Egypt, following its offensive in response to the Oct. 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, all routes into Gaza have faced stringent Israeli controls. Other barriers include delays and the need for truck and driver approvals, severely restricting aid inflows this month.

(With inputs from agencies.)