**Mass Hunger in Gaza: A Delicate Situation**
A recent video shared by Nadav Shishani, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), shows a massive aid shipment of 950 trucks waiting to be picked up and delivered to civilians in Gaza. However, this claim has been disputed by aid agencies, who say that they have been blocked from accessing or delivering these critical supplies due to Israeli government restrictions.
**Aid Agencies Speak Out**
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has been running the aid distribution system since May, according to Israel. But, Cogat, a branch of the Israeli Defense Ministry responsible for civilian affairs in Gaza, was quoted by Israeli Army Radio as saying that Hamas is conducting a “false campaign” regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza as a pressure tactic during negotiations.
**The Alarming Reality**
Despite Israel’s claims that aid supplies are available, more than 100 international human rights and aid groups have sounded the alarm about mass starvation in Gaza. In a joint statement, they warned of the devastating consequences of not meeting the basic needs of the population. “As mass-starvation spreads throughout Gaza, our colleagues, and those we serve, are wasting away,” they said.
**A Critical Shortage**
The letter from these aid agencies highlights a critical shortage of food supplies in Gaza. They point out that only 28 trucks of aid are being distributed per week, which is far below the minimum of 60 lorries required to feed the population of 2 million people. This alarming situation has led them to call for a ceasefire and the opening of crossings, as well as a full-flow of food through a UN-led mechanism.
**Commentary**
This situation is a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict. While Israel claims that aid supplies are available, it’s clear that there are serious obstacles preventing their distribution. Aid agencies have long been calling for greater access to Gaza and an end to restrictions on humanitarian aid. The international community must take note of this crisis and demand action from all parties involved.
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