What's happened
As of April 18, 2025, Gaza's humanitarian aid system is on the brink of collapse due to Israel's blockade imposed on March 2. Aid organizations warn of widespread famine and severe malnutrition among the population, with many relying solely on charity kitchens for food. The situation has worsened since the ceasefire ended on March 18.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- The humanitarian aid system in Gaza is described as 'facing total collapse' by 12 major NGOs, including Oxfam and Save the Children.
- Nearly all of Gaza's 2 million residents now depend on humanitarian aid, with many only receiving one meal every other day.
Humanitarian Impact
- The UN reports that thousands of children are malnourished, and the situation is deteriorating rapidly.
- Aid groups have suspended services due to the ongoing violence, with airstrikes making it dangerous to operate.
Political Context
- Israel maintains that the blockade is necessary to pressure Hamas to release hostages, with Israeli officials stating that preventing aid is a central tactic against the group.
- The international community is urged to intervene and ensure safe access for humanitarian aid, as the situation in Gaza continues to worsen.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, 'Israel ended a ceasefire last month and renewed its bombardment, killing hundreds of people and seizing large parts of the territory.' This highlights the severe impact of military actions on civilians. Meanwhile, The New Arab reports that humanitarian organizations are calling for 'unfettered access of aid into and across Gaza,' emphasizing the urgent need for international support. The contrasting perspectives illustrate the complex interplay between military strategy and humanitarian needs in the region.
How we got here
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated since October 2023, leading to significant civilian casualties and a humanitarian crisis. A ceasefire was in place until March 2025, when hostilities resumed, prompting Israel to impose a blockade on aid supplies to Gaza.
Go deeper
- What are the latest statistics on casualties in Gaza?
- How are aid organizations responding to the blockade?
- What actions are being taken by the international community?
More on these topics
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Gaza most commonly refers to:
Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
Gaza may also refer to:
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.