WFP Halts Gaza Food Aid Amid Border Blockade

WFP Halts Gaza Food Aid Amid Border Blockade

Why in the News ?

The World Food Programme (WFP) announced it has exhausted all food supplies in Gaza as border crossings remain sealed. Amid escalating airstrikes and humanitarian crisis, Israel denies a famine, citing concerns over aid diversion by Hamas militants.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens :

• WFP declared complete depletion of food stocks in Gaza on Friday.
• Last remaining aid was dispatched to community kitchens, expected to run out within days.
• No humanitarian or commercial aid has entered Gaza for over seven weeks, the longest blockade since conflict began.
• Closure has impacted 3 million residents, with hunger levels worsening daily.

Conflict Escalation and Aid Disruption

• At least 78 Palestinians reportedly killed in Israeli airstrikes within 24 hours, as per Gaza authorities.
• March 2 onwards, Israel has cut off all aid, including supplies stockpiled during an earlier ceasefire.
• 25 WFP-supported bakeries shut down on March 31 due to lack of wheat and cooking fuel.
• Food parcels for families—meant to last two weeks—have been fully distributed and now exhausted.

Political Standoff and Denials

• Israel denies claims of a humanitarian famine, blaming Hamas for misusing aid—an allegation Hamas rejects.
• Israeli authorities cite security concerns, saying aid could benefit militants.
• WFP warns that critical life-saving aid may be halted permanently unless aid routes are reopened.
• The situation highlights the urgent need for international intervention and safe humanitarian corridors.