UN Agencies Report Worst-Aid Loss in Gaza during 13 Months of War
GENEVA/CAIRO: Nearly 100 trucks carrying food for Palestinians were violently looted on Nov 16 after entering Gaza, in one of the worst aid losses during 13 months of war in the enclave where hunger is deepening, two UN agencies told Reuters on Monday.
Aid Trucks Attacked and Looted
The convoy transporting food provided by UN agencies UNRWA and the World Food Programme was instructed by Israel to depart at short notice via an unfamiliar route from Kerem Shalom border crossing, said Louise Wateridge, UNRWA senior emergency officer.
Ninety-eight trucks of the 109-truck convoy were raided and some of the transporters were injured during the incident, she said, without detailing who carried out the ambush.
Severe Access Challenges
“This… highlights the severity of access challenges of bringing aid into southern and central Gaza,” she told Reuters.
“The urgency of the crisis cannot be overstated; without immediate intervention, severe food shortages are set to worsen, further endangering the lives of over two million people who depend on humanitarian aid to survive.”
Looting Highlights Gaza’s Severe Food Crisis
A WFP spokesperson confirmed the looting and said that many routes in Gaza were currently unpassable due to security issues.
An Israeli official said Israel had been working to address the humanitarian situation since the start of the war, adding that the main problem with aid deliveries was UN distribution challenges.
Gaza Aid Access Hits Low Point
A UN aid official said on Friday that Gaza aid access had reached a low point, with deliveries to parts of the besieged north of the enclave all but impossible. Israel’s devastating military campaign in Gaza was triggered by the Oct 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel.
Conclusion
The recent attacks on aid trucks in Gaza highlight the severe challenges of bringing humanitarian aid to those in need. The war has had a devastating impact on the lives of over two million people, and urgent action is needed to prevent further suffering.
FAQs
Q: Why did the aid trucks face security issues in Gaza?
A: Many routes in Gaza are currently unpassable due to security issues, making it difficult for aid to reach those who need it.
Q: What is the main problem with aid deliveries in Gaza?
A: The main problem with aid deliveries is UN distribution challenges, according to an Israeli official.
Q: How many people depend on humanitarian aid to survive in Gaza?
A: Over two million people depend on humanitarian aid to survive, according to UN agencies.
Q: What triggered Israel’s devastating military campaign in Gaza?
A: Israel’s military campaign in Gaza was triggered by the Oct 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel.