The Gaza Strip is currently experiencing one of the worst humanitarian crises of modern times. The tragedy of hunger has reached unbearable levels, and the cries of those in need go unheard. While the occupying state enjoys abundant food supplies and the world lives in comfort, children in Gaza are dying of hunger. Most of the population is facing severe shortages of food and water amid a total blockade lasting over two months, with a complete loss of security and shelter.

Even before the war broke out in October 2023, the Gaza Strip was already suffering under the weight of blockade, unemployment, and poverty. According to a United Nations analysis, more than 68 per cent of households in Gaza experienced varying degrees of food insecurity, relying heavily on food assistance. By the end of 2022, the overall poverty rate had reached approximately 61 per cent, while unemployment stood at 45 per cent.

In contrast, the occupying state enjoys sufficient food resources and high food safety, supported by domestic production and diverse imports, with virtually no hunger rates reported. Globally, the average hunger rate was below 9.2 per cent, and in Arab countries, it did not exceed 14 per cent. This places Gaza’s pre-war hunger levels among the highest in the world.

The crisis is largely a result of the blockade imposed by the occupying power since 2007, which banned numerous items classified as “dual use,” including fertilizers, animal feed, and agricultural supplies. Although Israel controls the border crossings, essential food items—such as flour, vegetables, and dairy products were allowed only in limited quantities. As a result, the people of Gaza received only what was minimally available under strict import restrictions.

READ: Under US pressure, Israel to allow ‘basic’ aid into Gaza

With the outbreak of war in October 2023, Gaza witnessed a devastating collapse of its agricultural, livestock, and fisheries sectors. A UN analysis of satellite imagery revealed that 75 per cent of agricultural land, 11,293 out of 15,053 hectares, was burned or destroyed. Livestock losses exceeded 96 per cent of all animals and poultry. More than three-quarters of Gaza’s olive and fruit orchards were also obliterated.

This massive destruction effectively wiped-out local food production, which had previously met 40 per cent of Gaza’s food demand. That production is now nearly........

© Middle East Monitor