**Gaza on Brink of Disaster: A 18-Month Long War Takes Its Toll**
The situation in Gaza is dire, with a devastating war between Israel and Hamas stretching for almost two years now. The United Nations-backed bakeries have stopped functioning, markets are empty, and hospitals are struggling to cope with the shortages of essential medicines and supplies.
**A Holiday Marred by Starvation and Sorrow**
For many Gazans, this week’s Eid al-Fitr holiday was a time of great hardship, rather than joy. “We can’t drink or eat,” said Um Ali Hamad, a resident of Gaza City. “We couldn’t have fun. We’re exhausted.” The usually festive period has been marred by the lack of basic necessities like food and medicine.
**Aid Agencies Urge World Powers to Act**
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, aid agencies are calling on world powers to force Israel to allow essential goods, including food, medicine, and fuel, into Gaza. However, the Israeli military’s Cogat claims that there is enough aid available if Hamas allows civilians to access it. This assertion has been disputed by many, who point out that the lack of access to basic necessities has left Gazans with no choice but to rely on the black market.
**Bread, a Basic Necessity, Now Unaffordable**
The UN World Food Programme’s decision to stop providing hot food due to a shortage of supplies has further exacerbated the crisis. The price of flour has skyrocketed on the black market, making bread unaffordable for many Gazans. This has left families struggling to survive in one of the most densely populated places on earth.
**Hospitals Struggle to Cope**
The hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed with casualties, and the shortage of essential medicines like anesthesia, antibiotics, and fluids is critical. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that another mass casualty incident could have devastating consequences, leading to people dying from wounds that could have been treated.
**A Rising Death Toll**
The death toll continues to rise, with at least 1,066 Palestinians killed since Israel resumed its war in Gaza on March 18. Medecins Sans Frontieres has condemned Israel’s actions as “collective punishment” of Palestinians.
**No End in Sight**
Despite efforts by Arab mediators to revive the ceasefire, there are no signs that a breakthrough is imminent or that Israel will end its closure of the crossings to Gaza. The humanitarian crisis shows no signs of abating, and it remains unclear when the people of Gaza will be able to live without fear of starvation, violence, and death.
**The Human Cost**
As the war continues, the human cost becomes more apparent. Children make up a third of the casualties, and pregnant women are struggling to access essential medical supplies. The situation is dire, and it’s hard not to wonder when this cycle of violence will end.
Read More @ {{domain}}