As the obstruction of humanitarian aid into Gaza continues, aid agencies have just a few days of supplies left. Trocaire calls upon the international community and Israel to abide by international humanitarian law, which binds all parties to allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of impartial humanitarian assistance for civilians in need.
Economic sanctions and international aid being used as a political weapon, have resulted in a humanitarian crisis in the occupied Palestinian Territories. Currently
50% of Palestinians do not have enough food to meet their needs. In the last year the number of Palestinians living in poverty has almost doubled to over a million
The obstruction of humanitarian aid and the recent violence in Gaza has caused new levels of hardship for Palestinians. Whilst all sides to the conflict, including Israel state their commitment to allowing access to humanitarian goods, reports from Gaza indicate that Karni, the cargo checkpoint, has remained shut for security reasons and the World Food Program says the 'remaining supply links are tenuous'. Only 20% of humanitarian assistance is being allowed through.
UN agencies estimate that over 87% of the Gaza population are currently living below the poverty line. Increases in the prices of basic commodities and medicines are increasing levels of poverty, illness and suffering for the Gaza population.
To contact Trócaire's press team:
Republic of Ireland
Catherine Ginty,
Press Officer,
Trócaire.
T: +353 1 505 3270
M: 086 629 3994
Northern Ireland & UK
David O'Hare,
Press Officer,
Trócaire.
T: 028 90 80 80 30
M: +44 7900053884