The United Nations has issued an urgent warning that 14,000 infants in Gaza could perish within the next two days unless critical humanitarian aid reaches the region. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher described the situation as "utterly chilling," emphasizing that lifesaving food and medical supplies remain dangerously scarce despite recent approvals for limited aid deliveries.
Israel permitted approximately 100 additional aid trucks to enter Gaza on Tuesday, but only five of nine authorized trucks passed through the Kerem Shalom crossing on Monday. Fletcher called current aid levels a "drop in the ocean" compared to mounting needs, noting that many UN field workers have been killed while attempting relief operations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged international pressure over civilian casualties in a video statement, vowing to continue military operations until achieving "complete victory" over Hamas and securing the release of remaining hostages. This comes as Israel faces growing scrutiny over its blockade policies, which had previously restricted aid to "minimal" levels aimed only at preventing mass starvation.
The crisis highlights escalating tensions between humanitarian imperatives and military objectives in the conflict. With 58 hostages still held in Gaza and Hamas’ operational capabilities remaining intact, analysts warn of prolonged instability affecting regional security and global diplomatic relations.
