Aid entering Gaza declined during the month of October, particularly in the northern Gaza Strip where a military offensive against Hamas is underway. The United Nations and Israel are increasingly blaming one another over the reasons for and extent of the problem.
Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, stated on Oct. 27 that 'repeated efforts to deliver humanitarian supplies' were being 'denied by the Israeli authorities.'
Brig. Gen. Elad Goren, head of the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) that oversees the humanitarian-civil effort in Gaza, refuted the accusations, citing logistical challenges and lack of commitment in the U.N. effort.
Israel opened up the Kisufim on Tuesday for the transfer of humanitarian aid trucks to central and southern Gaza, aiming to alleviate the aid backlog at the Kerem Shalom crossing.
COGAT shared data showing an increase in the number of aid trucks awaiting collection at Kerem Shalom, attributing the delays to ongoing challenges like looters attacking humanitarian convoys.
Despite efforts to find solutions, disputes between COGAT and the U.N. persist regarding alternative routes for aid trucks and access to border crossings.
Concerns were raised about the safety of humanitarian workers at Israeli checkpoints and incidents of IDF gunfire targeting aid convoys.
The IDF spokesperson emphasized proactive measures to facilitate aid deliveries, including road expansions and additional logistical support.
Warnings of a humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza have been issued by various sources, with conflicting reports on the severity of the situation.
Recent reports highlight improvements in food security in Gaza due to increased aid deliveries, although challenges remain in ensuring sufficient aid reaches those in need.
Efforts to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza are ongoing, with international organizations and Israeli authorities working to navigate complex logistical and security challenges.
The U.S. government has expressed concerns over potential aid diversion by Hamas and emphasized the need to ensure aid reaches civilians in Gaza.
Amidst ongoing tensions and challenges, efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza continue, with a focus on addressing immediate needs and long-term food security concerns.
