The key facts
- Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor warns of the risk of a new famine in Gaza due to shortages of flour, fuel and restrictions on imports
- Permitted deliveries cover no more than 37% of residents' needs; fresh vegetables and fruits are still not allowed through
- WFP previously reported a reduction in aid for roughly half a million Palestinians due to a funding shortfall
Human rights group warned of the return of the famine threat
The Geneva-based human rights organization Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor warned on Thursday that the Gaza Strip could face famine again, as Israeli restrictions on the entry of goods make it difficult for residents to access food, and a shortage of flour threatens bread production. According to observations by the group's teams, markets are becoming increasingly empty and food prices are rising sharply. The organization accused Israel of the 'deliberate deprivation' of Palestinians of adequate nutrition, calling it part of the ongoing genocide.
Restrictions on deliveries and closures of crossings
According to the organization, the Israeli authorities suspended the delivery of commercial goods to Gaza on October 13, and on October 19 announced the resumption of part of the imports. However, the group claims, the decision brought little relief: deliveries remain tightly restricted, and fresh fruits and vegetables are still not allowed through. Residents and traders also face uncertainty due to the closure of crossings on Fridays and Saturdays without guarantees that deliveries will resume on Sunday. Such interruptions, in the organization's view, could exhaust meager supplies and push prices up even further.
Bakery closures and WFP aid cuts
The organization reported that several bakeries recently stopped operating due to shortages of flour and fuel, including two large ones in Gaza City. Citing the head of the Gaza Bakeries Owners Association, the group notes that seven more bakeries supported by the World Food Programme (WFP) could halt operations within 48 hours. According to the organization's estimate, deliveries permitted into Gaza cover no more than 37% of residents' needs. The warning follows a statement by WFP on Monday that, due to a lack of funding, the program had cut food assistance for roughly half a million Palestinians. Euro-Med called on Israel to lift restrictions on essential goods, and on international donors to increase food aid and help bakeries resume operations.
