RAMALLAH: In a harrowing turn of events, the Gaza Strip finds itself gripped by a devastating humanitarian crisis as Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced a “complete siege” on the occupied Palestinian territory. The announcement came amid a relentless barrage of air strikes by the Israeli military, leaving at least 493 innocent Palestinian civilians martyred.
“We are putting a complete siege on Gaza… No electricity, no food, no water, no gas — it’s all closed,” declared Gallant in a video message, referring to the densely populated enclave that is home to 2.3 million people.
The siege has resulted in a dire shortage of essential supplies, leaving the population in a state of despair. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and medical supplies are rapidly depleting. With no electricity, the situation in healthcare facilities has become critical, endangering the lives of patients who rely on life-saving equipment.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Strip Amid Israeli Bombardment
International humanitarian organizations have expressed deep concern over the unfolding crisis, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of vital supplies to the Gaza Strip. The United Nations and several countries have called for a diplomatic resolution to end the violence and alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.
Meanwhile, the United Nations reported that the conflict has led to a significant increase in the number of displaced residents, with over 123,000 people forced to leave their homes.
Israeli airstrikes, in response to Hamas’ unprecedented attack on Israel, have caused extensive damage to residential areas in Gaza. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that 159 housing units have been completely destroyed, while 1,210 others have suffered severe damage.
The impact of the conflict on civilians is devastating. A school that provided shelter to more than 225 people in Gaza was hit directly, adding to the rising toll of casualties. The United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees expressed grave concern over the situation.
The #Israeli aggression targets residential communities in various areas of #Gaza_Strip, and has so far led to the martyrdom of 370 #Palestinian citizens and the wounding of approximately 2,200 people, including children and women, large numbers of whom are defenseless civilians.… pic.twitter.com/xWXFVtrpMt
— State of Palestine – MFA 🇵🇸🇵🇸 (@pmofa) October 8, 2023
