Gaza Crisis Reaches 'Apocalyptic' Levels
A group of international aid organizations has accused Israel of ignoring a U.S. ultimatum that warned of sanctions if Israel did not take certain actions to improve the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. This ultimatum, which lasts for 30 days and was issued on October 13, is set to expire soon, either on Tuesday or Wednesday. Humanitarian groups report that very few of the demands outlined in the ultimatum have been met.
The ultimatum required Israel to ensure the daily delivery of at least 350 truckloads of aid to Gaza, to open a fifth crossing into the region, and to allow humanitarian organizations access to northern Gaza. While Israel has announced some concessions, such as expanding a designated humanitarian zone and plans for the new crossing, aid organizations claim these measures are not enough to alleviate the severe conditions in Gaza. Over 80% of the population has been displaced, and more than two-thirds of the buildings have been destroyed or damaged due to ongoing conflict.
The U.S. has not yet stated whether Israel has fulfilled the ultimatum’s requirements, but humanitarian groups warn that the crisis is getting worse. They indicate that parts of northern Gaza are facing imminent famine and criticize Israel for obstructing aid, asserting that these actions have intensified the humanitarian crisis. In response, Israel denies intentionally limiting aid, citing logistical difficulties and ongoing fighting as barriers to effective aid distribution.
The crisis is worsened by continued Israeli airstrikes, which have resulted in at least 14 deaths this week, including several children. Military operations in northern Gaza are still ongoing. Since the conflict began in 2023, Palestinian health authorities report that over 43,000 Palestinians have been killed, with most being civilians.
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