UN Warns of Imminent Famine in Gaza Amid Unprecedented Blockade and Aid Shortage
May 3, 2025
The UN's humanitarian chief criticized Israel's actions as an attack on human dignity, noting that nearly all aid organizations have had to limit or cease operations due to the blockade.
Israeli military operations continue to restrict the movement of people and resources within Gaza, resulting in critical shortages of medicine and clean water.
The Israeli Defense Minister has reiterated that no aid will be allowed to enter Gaza, emphasizing the severity of the blockade that resumed after a ceasefire with Hamas was broken in mid-March.
Food prices have skyrocketed, with the cost of 25 kilograms of flour now ranging between 150 and 200 euros, a dramatic increase from pre-conflict prices.
Despite significant food reserves available at Gaza's borders, Israeli officials have denied the resumption of aid deliveries, citing concerns over Hamas's control of resources.
Reports indicate a troubling rise in severe malnutrition cases among children, with over 3,700 cases reported in March 2025, marking an 80% increase since February.
Residents of Gaza are living under constant surveillance from Israeli drones, contributing to a pervasive sense of psychological distress.
Local pharmacist Zulfiqar Swairjo reported the destruction of his pharmacy and highlighted the ongoing anxiety among residents due to the siege.
In Beit Lahia, Abed Al Rahman shared that his family is rationing meals, providing their children with only half a loaf of bread each day due to dwindling food supplies.
Since early March 2025, the Gaza Strip has been under a strict blockade, preventing any commercial or humanitarian aid from entering, which the United Nations has declared as the worst humanitarian situation in the region's history.
International organizations are warning that this ongoing blockade could lead to a man-made famine, as families struggle with increasingly scarce resources.
The UN has reported that the World Food Programme has depleted its last food stocks, exacerbating the crisis for Gaza's two million residents.
Summary based on 2 sources