GENEVA: The United Nations has highlighted Israel’s obstruction of food aid convoys within the besieged Gaza Strip, where famine looms large amidst growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis.
Speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, a spokesman for the United Nations’ humanitarian agency revealed statistics indicating that obtaining clearance for delivering food aid in Gaza was significantly more challenging compared to other forms of humanitarian assistance.
Jens Laerke emphasized that food convoys destined for the northern region, where 70 percent of the population faces famine conditions, were three times more likely to be denied clearance than other humanitarian convoys carrying different types of aid.
As international pressure mounts on Israel to ease restrictions and allow more aid into Gaza, Israel contends that the primary issue lies with the distribution of UN aid within the territory.
Jens Laerke dismissed comparisons between aid distributions as “meaningless,” citing factors such as trucks being screened while only half-full for screening purposes, and subsequent reloading before reaching warehouses. He highlighted delays at crossing points, restrictions on the presence of Egyptian drivers and trucks, and challenges in obtaining authorization for unimpeded aid distribution as significant hurdles.
Despite Israel’s complaints about UN aid distribution, Laerke emphasized that half of the food convoys intended for northern Gaza in March were denied clearance by Israeli authorities. He stressed that as the occupying power of Gaza, Israel has an obligation to facilitate and ensure humanitarian access, both at border crossings and within the territory.
The ongoing dispute over aid distribution underscores the urgency of addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the population continues to suffer from the repercussions of prolonged conflict and blockade. As efforts to alleviate the crisis persist, the international community remains vigilant in advocating for unimpeded humanitarian access and assistance to Gaza’s vulnerable population.
