Israel has halted the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, leading to a dramatic surge in prices for essential goods. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), flour and vegetable prices in Gaza have increased by more than 100-fold since the closure of the Kerem Shalom, Erez, and Zikim crossings.
The closure has left thousands of vital supplies, including tents and other necessities, undelivered. UN humanitarians expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the decision to block aid was intended to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal, as suggested by the United States.
Tom Fletcher, the UN emergency relief coordinator, described Israel's move as \\"indeed alarming\\" and called for immediate access to deliver lifesaving aid to Gaza. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also urged all parties to prevent a return to hostilities and ensure the flow of humanitarian assistance.
The UN Children's Fund warned that the suspension of aid deliveries will have devastating effects on children and families struggling to survive in Gaza.
