More than 100 humanitarian and rights organizations, including the Norwegian Refugee Council and Mercy Corps, have sounded the alarm over a worsening hunger crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the lifting of all restrictions on aid.
In a joint statement, 111 groups warned that mass starvation is spreading, with some aid workers now joining food lines and facing gunfire just to feed their families.
Despite tons of food and medical supplies waiting outside Gaza, humanitarian access remains blocked.
The organizations blame Israel’s total siege for causing ‘chaos, starvation, and death,’ and demand that all land crossings be opened and bureaucratic hurdles removed.
Since March this year, Israel has restricted aid entry to prevent diversion to Hamas.
Though the blockade was partially lifted in May, humanitarian groups say their operations remain paralyzed.
The Norwegian Refugee Council reports that its Gaza aid stock is now completely depleted, with staff members themselves starving.
At least 101 people, including 80 children, have died of hunger-related causes.
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres called the situation a ‘horror show,’ warning that starvation is knocking on every door.
Meanwhile, Israel denies it is responsible for the food crisis, blaming international organizations for logistical failures. —Kim Plagata, Contributor