Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza: UN Warns of 'Unseen Level' of Suffering Amid 60-Day Blockade

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, according to the United Nations, which is warning of an "unseen level" of human suffering as Israel's total blockade enters its 60th day. The continued siege has left over two million people trapped with limited access to food, water, electricity, and medical supplies.

The latest wave of Israeli airstrikes has killed at least 38 Palestinians in the past 48 hours, further intensifying fears of a widening conflict and deepening humanitarian emergency. Civilians, including women and children, make up a significant number of the casualties, local health authorities report.

"The scale of the suffering in Gaza is unprecedented," said Martin Griffiths, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs. "Families are being pushed to the brink of starvation, hospitals are overwhelmed and under-equipped, and people have nowhere to turn."

Aid organizations have reported that humanitarian convoys are either blocked or severely limited in access, with only a trickle of aid allowed in through tightly controlled border crossings. The collapse of essential infrastructure has also increased the spread of disease, particularly among displaced populations sheltering in overcrowded schools, mosques, and temporary shelters.

Israel maintains that the blockade and strikes are in response to continued rocket fire and militant activity from Hamas and other groups operating in Gaza. However, international calls for restraint and protection of civilians have grown louder, with humanitarian agencies warning that the situation risks spiraling into a broader regional catastrophe.

Despite urgent appeals, a ceasefire remains elusive. The United Nations, along with several governments and humanitarian agencies, is pushing for immediate humanitarian corridors to allow aid to reach those in need, and for a political resolution that prioritizes civilian lives.

Author: Global Ripple

Posted on: April 29, 2025