The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities like food. Desperate measures have become the norm, as seen in the heartbreaking scenes of hungry Palestinians picking airdropped rice mixed with sand.
The situation on the ground is dire, with many Palestinians forced to gather legumes and rice from sand and gravel to feed their children. The Israeli army’s actions have exacerbated the crisis, including a notorious incident where aid meant for Palestinians was replaced with bags of sand labeled as “white sugar” in Hebrew.
The situation on the ground is dire, with people struggling to find food and facing constant threats of attacks and displacement. Journalist Tareq Abu Azzoum reports from Deir el-Balah, central Gaza, that “every day is a battle to survive and to get even one meal.” The Israeli military escalation is surging, with people overwhelmed by different kinds of air strikes and artillery bombardment.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Canada will recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September, citing the need for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Carney emphasized that “any path to lasting peace for Israel also requires a viable and stable Palestinian state, and one that recognises Israel’s inalienable right to security and peace.” This move follows similar announcements by France and the UK.
US President Donald Trump has claimed that the fastest way to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is for Hamas to surrender and release hostages. Trump’s comment comes as US special envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Israel for ceasefire and aid talks. The US has also imposed sanctions on Palestinian Authority officials and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization, saying they are undermining peace efforts.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s aid distribution system has been criticized by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who called it a “scandal” and “shameful.” Barrot urged for the cessation of the foundation’s activities, citing the militarized distribution of humanitarian aid that has generated a “bloodbath” in distribution lines.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has emphasized that a ceasefire is necessary to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Adnan Abu Hasna, a spokesman for UNRWA, highlighted that most Gaza newborns are underweight and undersized due to malnutrition, and hundreds of aid trucks must enter the Gaza Strip daily.
The international community is growing increasingly concerned about the situation in Gaza, with Portugal considering recognition of the Palestinian state in September. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for immediate action to alleviate the suffering of civilians.