On Tuesday, the Palestinian NGOs Network issued a stark warning: There has been no significant improvement in access to food for residents in Gaza despite international appeals and aid efforts, even with ongoing appeals and aid efforts underway. Representing dozens of civil society organizations operating within Gaza, this group asserted that humanitarian circumstances had reached an acute breaking point.
In its press statement, the network described Gaza’s food crisis as unprecedented and life-threatening, particularly in its northern governorates where entire neighborhoods remain cut off from consistent food and water deliveries. Families reportedly survive on little more than tea, wild greens or scraps of bread when available.
“Despite global attention and promises of support, aid is still not reaching those who require it most.” says Mohannad Sarraj of the Palestinian NGOs Network. “Children continue to suffer and die.”
The network noted that bureaucratic delays, security constraints and ongoing hostilities have hindered delivery and distribution of aid supplies. Although aid trucks occasionally enter Gaza through border crossings, NGOs report facing logistical and political hurdles which make effective distribution nearly impossible.
United Nations and other humanitarian agencies share these concerns, with the World Food Programme (WFP) warning this week that over half of Gaza’s population may be at risk of famine; aid workers remain challenged in reaching all affected areas.
Local monitoring groups reported that malnutrition rates among children under five have more than doubled over the past three months, while health officials in Gaza reported at least 60 people, most likely children, have died of starvation or dehydration since July 1.
The Palestinian NGOs Network voiced concern about a lack of coordination between international donors and local organizations, warning that without improved collaboration the humanitarian response will remain fragmented and ineffective.
“We possess both the expertise and capability necessary to distribute aid safely and quickly,” explained Sarraj. “However, our hands are tied by restrictions imposed by international bodies preventing humanitarian corridors from opening and providing sustained support. We need our hands freed.”
Residents in Gaza continue to face difficult living conditions; markets remain predominantly empty, electricity access is severely limited and access to clean water remains scarce. Multiple families have also been uprooted as a result of airstrikes and ongoing ground operations, further complicating matters.
International pressure is growing for a ceasefire and secure aid routes to be established, but no resolution appears imminent, warning NGOs that time may soon run out.
“This is more than a crisis; it’s an existential threat,” stated Sarraj. If no action are taken now, the long-term ramifications will be irreparable.