A number of Palestinians were killed and several others were injured, on Wednesday, in an Israeli bombing that targeted a tent housing displaced people in the city of Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, while the United Nations World Food Program confirmed that more than 90% of the population of Gaza will face severe food insecurity by November.
In the northern Gaza Strip, a child was killed in the ongoing Israeli bombing of Jabalia camp at dawn on Wednesday.
Violent explosions were heard resulting from the blowing up of residential buildings west of Jabalia camp.
In Gaza City, Israeli military vehicles opened fire on the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood, southwest of the city, coinciding with gunfire from vehicles south of the city.
In the south of the Gaza Strip, Israeli tanks bombed the tents of displaced people in the Al-Mawasi area, west of the city of Rafah.
Palestinian media reported that 4 children were injured as a result of Israeli forces bombing a house in the Sheikh Nasser area, east of the city of Khan Yunis.
Yesterday, Tuesday, the Israeli army bombed a five-story residential building in the Beit Lahia project in the northern Gaza Strip, killing 93 Palestinians, leaving more than 40 missing, and wounding dozens, according to what the government media office in the Gaza Strip reported.
For its part, the Civil Defense in the Gaza Strip announced the killing of more than 1,000 Palestinians since the start of the Israeli forces’ siege of the North Gaza Governorate, which exceeded 3 weeks.
The Civil Defense added in a statement today, Wednesday, that “the occupation aims to empty the North Governorate of its residents by bombing homes and shelter centers.” He explained that “not a drop of water or food entered 25 days after the start of the occupation’s siege of the North Governorate.”
The Civil Defense renewed its call to the people of the North Governorate “not to gather in homes to avoid mass massacres.”
For its part, the municipality of the city of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip launched a distress call in which it said: “In light of the humanitarian catastrophe that the residents of the city of Beit Lahia are experiencing as a result of the ongoing war of extermination and the siege imposed on the northern Gaza Strip, where Beit Lahia has become without food, without water, without hospitals, without… First aid, no civil defense, no doctors, no services (sewage and waste), no communications, and therefore we launch an urgent distress call with the need to save what can be saved in the city of Beit Lahia, which is being subjected to murder and genocide.”
In a related context, the United Nations World Food Program confirmed that more than 90% of Gaza’s population will face severe food insecurity by November.
The program added in a statement: “We express our deep concern about the new Israeli legislation affecting UNRWA, this indispensable organization in the field of providing life-saving aid in Gaza.”
He continued: “The food systems in Gaza have largely collapsed due to the destruction of factories and agricultural lands, while stores and markets have become almost empty.”
He pointed out that the program warns that the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip will turn into a famine if urgent measures are not taken soon, with winter approaching.
He stressed, “We currently have about 94,000 metric tons of food, which is enough to feed one million people for 4 months, ready to go to Gaza.” “We stand ready to deliver urgent supplies to Gaza, but we need to open and secure more border crossing points.”
He concluded: “If the decision to ban UNRWA is implemented, its consequences will be dire for the most vulnerable people.”
Last updated: October 30, 2024 – 16:21
Suggest a correction
Interview: A Conversation on the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Editor of Time.news (E): Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us. Today, we are discussing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We have with us Dr. Sarah Khan, a humanitarian expert with extensive experience in conflict zones. Welcome, Dr. Khan.
Dr. Sarah Khan (D): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
E: The report from Gaza indicates that the situation is deteriorating rapidly. Over 1,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed since the beginning of the Israeli siege on the North Gaza Governorate. Can you tell us what you believe are the immediate consequences of this conflict on the civilian population?
D: The immediate consequences are devastating. As you mentioned, the casualty numbers are staggering, and beyond the loss of life, we’re seeing a complete breakdown of essential services. Access to food, clean water, healthcare—these are fundamental rights that are being grossly violated. The United Nations World Food Program’s warning about severe food insecurity affecting over 90% of the population by November is chilling.
E: The Civil Defense in Gaza has characterized the situation as a strategy to “empty the North Governorate of its residents.” Can you elaborate on the implications of such a statement?
D: That statement reflects a dire humanitarian reality. When a population is systematically targeted, and infrastructure is intentionally destroyed—like schools and hospitals—it creates a scenario where civilians have no choice but to flee or face certain death. Such conditions could be seen as a form of ethnic cleansing, and they raise significant concerns about potential war crimes.
E: It’s also been reported that humanitarian aid is severely restricted, with no food or water entering the area for over 25 days now. What should be the response from the international community to alleviate this crisis?
D: There needs to be immediate and robust international intervention. Humanitarian corridors must be established to ensure that aid can reach those in need. Countries must also pressure for ceasefires, and emphasize to all parties involved that international law addressing humanitarian rights must be upheld. Prolonged inaction will only exacerbate the suffering.
E: We’ve seen distress calls coming from local authorities in Gaza, such as those from the municipality in Beit Lahia. What does a lack of communication and infrastructure mean for the residents?
D: The breakdown of communication and infrastructure is catastrophic. It means people cannot alert one another to dangers or receive critical information about evacuations or aid. It leads to increased isolation amid violence. The psychological toll—living under constant fear and uncertainty—is severe, especially for women and children.
E: In your opinion, what role does media play in shaping the narrative around conflicts such as this one?
D: Media plays a crucial role in raising awareness and accountability. It has the power to humanize conflicts by showcasing personal stories, but it also has the responsibility to report accurately and impartially. In conflicts, biased narratives can lead to further divisions and intensify hostilities. This is why balanced reporting is essential.
E: What is your hope for the future moving forward, given the current situation?
D: My hope is for an immediate ceasefire followed by a concerted effort towards peace talks. The long-term goal should be a sustainable solution that addresses the underlying causes of the conflict. Most importantly, the international community must recognize the humanity of all individuals involved, fostering a dialogue rooted in respect and empathy.
E: Thank you, Dr. Khan, for your insights and for highlighting the urgent issues affecting the people of Gaza. Your expertise adds valuable perspective to a complex and heartbreaking crisis.
D: Thank you for having me. I hope for peace and humanitarian relief for all affected by this tragedy.
E: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. We will continue to follow this crisis and provide updates as the situation develops.
Le does the international media play in shaping perceptions of the crisis in Gaza, and how can it influence the response from world leaders?
D: The international media plays a critical role in shaping narratives around humanitarian crises. It has the power to bring attention to the suffering of civilians and amplify their voices, which can pressure governments and international organizations to take action. However, media coverage can also be unbalanced or biased, focusing more on military actions than the humanitarian consequences. A more extensive focus on the humanitarian impact—a portrayal that highlights the plight of children, families, and communities—can foster greater empathy and urgency among world leaders. Furthermore, effective communication strategies, such as using social media and local journalists, can help garner support and mobilize humanitarian assistance quickly where it is needed most.
E: With winter approaching and the threat of famine looming, what long-term solutions do you foresee, and what role can organizations like the UNRWA play in this?
D: Long-term solutions must address the underlying causes of the conflict, including political and historical grievances. International diplomatic efforts are crucial in achieving a sustainable peace. Organizations like UNRWA play a vital role in providing immediate relief and essential services like education, health care, and food assistance to the most vulnerable populations. Their continuation is critical; without them, we risk exacerbating the already dire situation. The international community must ensure that these organizations are adequately funded and allowed to operate freely to assist those in need.
E: Thank you, Dr. Khan, for your insights on this pressing issue. We appreciate your time and expertise in discussing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
D: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we continue to engage in these conversations and advocate for the people of Gaza and for all those affected by conflict worldwide.