The Gaza ceasefire has proven essential to saving lives, bringing humanitarian aid and maintaining civilians. But Gaza’s humanitarian crisis is not over. Delivery of aid had increased significantly during the ceasefire, but remains a decline in the ocean compared to immeasurable needs on the ground.
Beyond emergency relief, there is a long-term commitment to rebuilding critical services and restoring the dignity of affected communities. Additionally, a diverse range of support is urgently needed, including shelters, medical supplies and other critical services to deal with complex humanitarian crises.
The suspension of current assistance, including the suspension of power on Gaza’s only desalination facility, risks Gaza becoming an even more acute humanitarian emergency. The impact is already felt by rising prices and a lack of basic products.
Under international humanitarian law, Israel shall ensure that the basic needs of civilians under its control are met. The swift and unhindered passage of humanitarian assistance must also be permitted and promoted.
The ICRC remains committed to providing life-saving assistance and advocating for the urgent needs of those affected. Fast and unhindered humanitarian access is important to fulfill this mission. The ICRC repeats an urgent call for more assistance in entering Gaza, as all hostages are released and the ceasefire continues.