In brief
UNRWA Chief Calls for Israel's Accountability Amid Rising Aid Disruption
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) announced the suspension of humanitarian aid deliveries through the primary crossing between Israel and Gaza, citing escalating security threats and violent incidents involving armed groups. Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, revealed that two recent aid convoys were raided and looted at the Kerem Shalom crossing, urging Israel to restore order in the area.Kerem Shalom serves as the primary route for delivering essential aid to over two million Palestinians in Gaza, who are currently facing an imminent food crisis. Over recent weeks, incidents of violent thefts by organized criminal gangs have surged, creating a significant barrier to aid distribution. One particular incident on November 16 saw a convoy of 109 trucks, loaded with food supplies, ambushed by masked assailants who threatened the drivers and stole 97 of the vehicles. Following this, a notorious family in Gaza set up blockades on roads leading from Kerem Shalom, reportedly firing on vehicles attempting to reach designated aid distribution points.Lazzarini noted that conditions on the road away from the crossing have been precarious for months, especially after five more trucks were stolen last Saturday, alongside the fatal incidents involving World Central Kitchen staff during an Israeli airstrike. Lazzarini stressed, “The delivery of humanitarian aid must never be dangerous or turned into an ordeal,” emphasizing the recognizable breakdown of security in the region. He held Israel responsible for ensuring the safety of aid workers and for keeping the aid flowing into Gaza without interference.Despite the chaos at Kerem Shalom, Israel claims to facilitate aid entry into Gaza and has recently opened several additional crossings amid global demands to enhance humanitarian support. Nevertheless, statistics from last month's Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report indicated that the volume of aid crossing into Gaza had hit a record low since the outbreak of conflict in October 2023, with urgent calls for action to prevent an escalating humanitarian disaster.The situation remains dire, with warnings from multiple international organizations pointing to a potential famine looming over Gaza. The UN has urged all parties involved in the conflict to take immediate measures to mitigate the humanitarian crisis, as the region struggles under the weight of ongoing violence and insecurity.
