The conditions in the Gaza Strip have worsened since Israel’s war on Gaza began over 100 days ago. More than 24,000 Palestinians have been killed, including over 10,000 children, and Palestinians in Gaza are at risk of famine, with four out of five people facing extreme hunger. The healthcare system is also severely impacted, with only 15 out of 36 hospitals operational and 70% of healthcare workers leaving. Despite the urgent need for humanitarian aid, the delivery of aid is hindered by the military assault and occupation, making it impossible for aid to reach those in need.
The restrictions on aid are not surprising considering the blockade and restrictions on goods and people that Gaza has been under for the past 17 years. Israel prevents many goods from entering Gaza, including key construction materials and medical equipment, under the pretext of preventing the manufacturing of weapons. The blockade has also impacted Gaza’s economy, resulting in high rates of poverty and unemployment. Access to medical care is also limited, as Palestinians need permission from Israel to leave Gaza for medical treatment, and many have been denied the necessary permits.
The rationale given by Israeli authorities for restricting aid is that it will be diverted to Hamas, but there is no evidence to support these claims. Scenes of mayhem occur as limited food aid arrives in Gaza, with people desperate to get food for their families. Aid workers and infrastructure are also limited, as many aid workers have been killed by Israel, and conflict conditions make it difficult to reach those in need. The flow of aid is tied to the military occupation, and without a cease-fire and the lifting of the siege, the aid crisis cannot be adequately addressed.
While there have been calls for more aid from Democratic members of Congress, they have not supported a cessation of military activity. The United Nations, on the other hand, has called for a cease-fire as the only way to meet the needs of the people of Gaza. The International Court of Justice has also ordered Israel to allow more aid into Gaza. However, the callous indifference towards Palestinian lives undermines global health cooperation and the commitment to human rights. It is crucial to call for a cease-fire, release those held in captivity, and end the siege to achieve freedom for Palestinians and create a world of peace and good health for all.
