Thirteen international NGOs report obstacles to the deployment of humanitarian aid in Gaza

^{The situation is getting worse and worse. For over 9 months, the people of Gaza have been plunged into chaos due to incessant fighting, forced displacement and lack of access to the most basic and vital services. In a press release dated July 15, 2024, 13 NGOs describe the main obstacles to the humanitarian response that is so essential to the more than 2 million people living in the Gaza Strip.Truck carrying food parcels for the population of Gaza – 2024, © Première Urgence Internationale}

Aid deployment has deteriorated sharply since the ground offensive at Rafah in early May. Trucks remain blocked at the entrance to Gaza, there are no safe areas inside the enclave, and civilians and aid workers alike are paying a heavy price for this war, the outcome of which we are unable to predict. The clock is ticking and there is no sign of a ceasefire.

Since the beginning of May, most humanitarian organizations have had to stop purchasing new basic necessities due to the blockage of roads between Egypt and Gaza. More than 1,500 trucks loaded with humanitarian aid from UN agencies and NGOs are currently waiting in Al Arish, Egypt, to enter Gaza.

These blockades are having a heavy impact on humanitarian organizations, which no longer have the capacity to operate on the ground.

“Première Urgence Internationale has only been able to bring in two trucks out of 50 since the beginning of May. These trucks are loaded with mattresses and hygiene products.”

Our presence in Gaza is only possible because our colleagues on the ground show unfailing commitment despite the risks to their own lives… These risks to which our colleagues are exposed at every moment are unacceptable. Today, it’s not just a question of a shrinking humanitarian space, but rather of a lack of space to act.

The signatory NGOs continue to call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and maintain that this is the only way to deliver humanitarian aid and protect and save lives in Gaza.

Read the press release