The United Nations’ top humanitarian official has called on Israel to end its blockade of aid into Gaza, warning that the continued obstruction of relief supplies amounts to “cruel collective punishment.”
Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, said the siege has pushed Gaza into its worst humanitarian crisis since the war began nearly 19 months ago. Aid agencies report acute shortages of food, clean water and medical supplies, with hospitals overwhelmed and maternity wards recording a sharp rise in underweight births and malnourished mothers.
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Israel has maintained the blockade since a temporary ceasefire collapsed in March, insisting its military campaign is aimed at forcing Hamas to release hostages and dismantle its armed wing.
While acknowledging the hostage issue, the UN insists international law requires humanitarian access regardless. Relief operations across Gaza have ground to a halt, with community kitchens closed and health 1services nearing total collapse.
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