Summary of the Blockade and Humanitarian Situation in Gaza

Blockade Overview

On 9 October 2023, Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared a total blockade on Gaza, cutting off electricity, food, water, and gas. The blockade enforced by Israeli tanks and drones closed all access, severely impacting Gaza's infrastructure and services. Israel Katz, Israel's Energy Minister, ordered the immediate cut of Gaza's water supply. Gallant later agreed to allow limited aid after pressure from U.S. President Joe Biden on 19 October. However, as of early 2024, aid restrictions remain tight, and protests in Israel have continued to obstruct aid deliveries.

Key Crossings and Aid Flow

• Rafah Crossing: Reopened on 21 October 2023, allowing limited aid from Egypt, but with stringent checks reducing flow to 241 trucks by the end of October. Egypt enforces tight controls to prevent a large refugee influx into Sinai. Currently closed.
• Kerem Shalom Crossing: Remained closed except for brief openings to repatriate Palestinian workers. Frequent protests and blockades by Zionist settlers to prevent aid from reaching Gazans at this crossing continue to restrict aid.
• Since October 2024 ALL CROSSINGS HAVE BEEN CLOSED.

Consequences of the Blockade

The blockade has reduced Gaza's electricity supply by 90%, leading to the shutdown of hospitals, sewage plants, and water desalination stations. By November, 27 of Gaza's 35 hospitals had closed due to fuel shortages. According to WHO, the lack of clean water has raised risks of cholera, respiratory infections, and other diseases. By December, 97% of households had inadequate food supplies, and the World Food Programme reported widespread starvation.

The ongoing attacks and shortages also damaged Gaza's telecommunications networks, limiting internet access and obstructing communication for emergency response and aid coordination. An eSIM project provided limited access to 200,000 Gazans.

Famine Threat

The blockade and airstrikes on Gaza’s food infrastructure have led to imminent famine conditions, with 2.2 million people now facing emergency food insecurity. IPC (Integrated Food Security Phase Classification) has marked Gaza’s situation as the highest level of food insecurity on record, with over half a million Gazans in severe hunger and malnutrition. It is the most intense man-made famine risk seen since World War II.

Consistent, unhindered humanitarian aid is crucial to address these life-threatening conditions in Gaza.