UN Secretary-General António Guterres declared today that Palestinians in Gaza are enduring the "cruelest phase" of the conflict, exacerbated by Israel’s 11-week blockade of aid and intensifying military operations.
Despite Israel’s partial easing of restrictions, only 115 of 400 authorized aid trucks reached Gaza in recent days due to logistical hurdles, insecurity, and Israeli-imposed delays36. Guterres likened the aid flow to a "teaspoon" compared to the "flood" required, noting that no supplies reached northern Gaza, where famine risks are acute.
The World Food Programme (WFP) reported that 15 aid trucks were looted in southern Gaza, a reflection of desperation amid starvation.
Casualties and Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure
Israeli strikes on May 24 killed at least 16 Palestinians and injured dozens, including in residential areas and medical facilities. The Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza sustained damage from drone-dropped bombs, injuring staff and disrupting critical care. Since Israel resumed military operations on March 18, over 3,670 Palestinians have been killed, raising the total death toll to 53,822, mostly women and children. The Israeli military claims it targeted 75 "terror sites," including Hamas infrastructure, and intercepted a projectile fired from Gaza.
Blockade’s Devastating Impact
Israel’s complete blockade from March 2 to May 18 caused severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, with UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini stating Gaza’s population was "starved" for over 11 weeks. During a six-week ceasefire earlier this year, 500–600 aid trucks entered daily, but current deliveries remain critically low. On May 23, Israel allowed 107 trucks, far below the 500 daily trucks the UN deems essential to avert famine. COGAT, Israel’s aid coordination body, controversially claimed "no food shortage" exists.
International Condemnation and Calls for Compliance
Guterres stressed Israel’s obligations under international humanitarian law, demanding unhindered aid access and an end to forced displacement. The EU, UK, and Canada threatened sanctions over Israel’s "disproportionate" military actions and West Bank settlement expansion. A joint statement by 15 UN agencies condemned Israel’s assault on civilians and humanitarian workers, urging an immediate ceasefire and compliance with International Court of Justice rulings.
Ceasefire Proposals and Stalemate
Hamas offered a 60-day truce conditional on hostage releases, while Israel insists on Hamas’ disarmament and control over Gaza. Negotiations mediated by Qatar have stalled, with Netanyahu vowing to continue military operations until Hamas is "eliminated". The UN’s five-stage aid plan—emphasizing delivery, inspection, and distribution through established humanitarian networks—remains unimplemented due to Israeli resistance.