Aid agencies report a deepening hunger crisis among Palestinians in Gaza as the United Nations General Assembly prepares for a crucial vote on an immediate humanitarian ceasefire amid the two-month-old conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Despite a U.S. veto on a Security Council resolution for a ceasefire, hundreds more civilians have perished in Israel’s assault on Gaza. The majority of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been displaced, struggling to find shelter and food in the densely populated region. The UN World Food Programme warns that half of the population is facing starvation.
“Hunger stalks everyone,” says UNRWA, responsible for Palestinian refugees, highlighting the dire situation. Gazans forced to flee repeatedly are succumbing to hunger, cold, and bombings, with reports of aid truck looting and soaring prices.
Israel maintains that its directives for people to move are protective measures against Hamas militants, responsible for an Oct. 7 cross-border attack that killed 1,200 people. The retaliatory assault has claimed 18,205 lives and wounded nearly 50,000, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The General Assembly is expected to pass a resolution mirroring the one blocked in the Security Council, reflecting global views on an immediate ceasefire. Though non-binding, General Assembly resolutions carry political weight.
Scrutiny on U.S. support intensifies as President Joe Biden reaffirms unwavering commitment to Israel. The U.S. sold 14,000 tank shells to Israel without congressional review, prompting discussions on compliance with the laws of war. Concerns rise over U.S.-supplied white phosphorus munitions’ alleged use by Israel, with calls for clarification.
As the conflict escalates, the U.N. reports 1.9 million displaced people, with conditions described as hellish. Israel announces a new aid screening system at the Kerem Shalom border crossing, aiming to increase aid flow. Israeli forces continue their push into Gaza, facing resistance from militants.
Amid diplomatic efforts, the situation remains critical, with Israeli airstrikes reportedly claiming more lives in central and southern Gaza. The international community awaits the outcome of the General Assembly vote, hoping for a breakthrough in ending the devastating conflict.
