The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate as ongoing Israeli military operations intensify, leading to mass civilian displacement and aid obstruction. Over the past two days, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported six blocked attempts to deliver critical supplies—including food, water, and medical aid—to northern Gaza. This area, comprising Jabalia, Beit Hanoun, and Beit Lahiya, has become a focal point of devastation, with residents trapped amid relentless bombardments. Nearly 79% of Gaza’s population has been forced to relocate, often multiple times, to poorly equipped southern regions.

International condemnation of these actions has been swift and severe. Louise Wateridge, a senior officer with the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), described the worsening conditions as “unbearable,” highlighting the collapse of basic healthcare and widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity, citing evidence of deliberate, systematic forced displacement. HRW’s Nadia Hardman stated: “Israel’s evacuation system is designed to spread fear and sow chaos, not to protect civilians.” UN General Assembly panels and other global leaders have also expressed alarm, pointing to disproportionate military tactics and calling for accountability.

The international community must act decisively to halt the violence and prevent further atrocities. While the need to address security concerns is understood, the indiscriminate targeting of civilians and the deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid violate international humanitarian law. Sustainable peace cannot be achieved through the widespread destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure or the forced displacement of its people. A comprehensive ceasefire, coupled with open humanitarian corridors, is essential to addressing the immediate crisis and creating the conditions for a long-term resolution.

The roots of this crisis trace back to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks on Israel, which killed over 1,200 people and resulted in the abduction of over 250 hostages. In response, Israel launched a military campaign that has since resulted in the displacement of over 1.9 million Palestinians and the destruction of large parts of Gaza.

The consequences of these actions are profound and far-reaching. Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, warned of a “total collapse of civil order,” which risks fuelling extremism and undermining future peace efforts. The lack of international intervention to halt Israel’s actions could embolden further violations of humanitarian law, perpetuating cycles of violence and suffering.

For lasting peace, the global community must prioritise accountability, support for displaced populations, and a renewed commitment to just and equitable solutions for all parties. The world is at a crossroads. Immediate action is needed to address the suffering in Gaza and lay the foundation for enduring peace. Neglecting to take action could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and lead to long-term instability in the region.