Gaza Faces Escalating Humanitarian Crisis on Day 60 of Blockade
Israel’s blockade of Gaza has now entered its 60th day, with devastating impacts on the civilian population. Since March 2, 2025, no food, water, or medical supplies have been allowed into the Gaza Strip, worsening the already dire humanitarian conditions. This blockade comes after Israel resumed bombardments and ground assaults on March 18, following a brief ceasefire. The United Nations (UN) has warned that Gaza is teetering on the brink of famine, with widespread displacement and severe shortages of essential supplies.
The World Food Programme (WFP) reported that all of its bakeries in Gaza have shut down, and stocks have been completely depleted. As a result, many Gazans are resorting to eating unsafe food sources, further compromising their health. The ongoing conflict has displaced tens of thousands, leaving them without access to critical food and emergency supplies. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, and the lack of basic medical supplies, including painkillers, is exacerbating the crisis, with many Palestinians dying quietly in overcrowded emergency wards.
The United States Defends Israel’s Actions at ICJ Hearing
In a parallel development, the United States has defended Israel’s actions during hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. The hearings focus on Israel’s humanitarian obligations to Palestinians, particularly concerning the aid blockade. The US argued that while Israel is responsible for providing humanitarian aid, it is not legally required to work with the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Israel had banned UNRWA’s operations in January 2025, citing security concerns, a move that the US supports.
The US legal adviser, Josh Simmons, emphasized that Israel’s security interests take precedence, and there is no legal obligation for Israel to allow third-party organizations to operate within its jurisdiction. While the UN and other countries like Russia and Turkey have strongly criticized Israel’s actions, the US maintains that alternative organizations could fulfill the role of UNRWA, despite the agency’s insistence that its work is irreplaceable.
Global Response and Urgency for Action
The international community is increasingly vocal in its condemnation of the blockade and Israel’s refusal to cooperate with UN agencies. The UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) and other organizations warn of catastrophic consequences if the blockade continues. Prices of essential goods have surged by over 500%, while the healthcare system in Gaza is on the brink of collapse. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has launched an assessment to monitor the food crisis, which is expected to continue for another week.
The Russian Federation, supported by a coalition of other nations, called on the ICJ to urgently address the situation, warning that Gaza’s humanitarian disaster is worsening by the day. As the ICJ hearings continue, countries like France, Iran, and Jordan are expected to speak out against the blockade, highlighting the need for immediate action to alleviate the suffering in Gaza.
