The Voice News: After nearly two months of complete closure, Israel has begun allowing a limited number of aid trucks into Gaza, raising concerns about an imminent famine in the region.
For the first time in 11 weeks, Israel permitted 198 aid trucks to enter Gaza through the Israeli and Egyptian borders between May 20 and 21. These trucks carried flour, baby food, medical supplies, and medicines. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that it is essential “not to cross the line in order to maintain international support.”
Critics argue that the current level of aid is “grossly insufficient.” Around 2 million people reside in Gaza, and during a temporary ceasefire earlier this year, an average of 600 aid trucks entered daily. Due to security concerns, many trucks have faced delays or been halted altogether.
Martin Frick, head of the German office of the World Food Programme, called the latest delivery a “flicker of hope” but emphasized it falls far short of what is needed. Trucks have faced numerous challenges including bombings, damaged roads, and looting. Fuel shortages have also hampered the ability of residents to collect aid or keep cold storage facilities operational.
Israel Blames Hamas
Since March 2, Israel has maintained a blockade, claiming that aid was being seized by Hamas militants. Only under international pressure has Israel allowed limited aid to pass.
Buffer Zone and Aid Stuck at Border
A massive buffer zone has been created near the border, where the World Food Programme has stockpiled 116,000 tons of food near the borders of Egypt, Israel, and Jordan. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) reports that 3,000 aid trucks are ready for dispatch, but distribution points are operating very slowly.
The only operational border crossing, Kerem Shalom, requires aid to be transferred to different trucks before entering Gaza. This transfer process depends on Israeli military clearance, often resulting in extended delays.
Who Is Delivering the Aid?
UNRWA manages emergency shelters in Gaza and is a key agency in delivering humanitarian aid. The World Food Programme supplies flour and operates 25 bakeries, many of which were shut down in March due to fuel shortages. Some bakeries have recently resumed operations.
UNICEF and the World Health Organization are providing specialized food, vaccines, and surgical equipment. These agencies are supported by Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Turkey’s Red Crescent, the International Red Cross, Islamic Relief, and other NGOs.
The European Union and the United States are also contributing aid. However, all supplies must undergo inspection by the Israeli military, resulting in further delays. Israel plans to establish a security hub in coordination with a U.S. logistics company, a move criticized by the United Nations.