The threat of famine has largely been avoided, says Tom Fletcher, head of the UN's disaster relief organization Ocha, after a two-day visit to war-torn Gaza.
Hundreds of trucks with emergency aid have been entering Gaza daily since the ceasefire began on January 19. This has led to a significant decrease in severe hunger levels, according to Fletcher.
However, he warns that the threat of famine can quickly return if the ceasefire collapses.
Currently, the six-week first phase of the negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which is blacklisted as a terrorist organization and rules Gaza, is underway. In line with the agreement, Israel is allowing 600 trucks with emergency aid to enter daily, making a significant difference for the civilian population whose access to food, medicine, and other essential goods had been virtually cut off.
During this ongoing phase, which also includes Hamas releasing hostages and Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners, the parties will negotiate the next phase – a process described as very difficult.
Tom Fletcher describes the situation in Gaza as "appalling" with bombed-out and pulverized areas. He emphasizes that the more than two million inhabitants are still hungry and that more aid is needed, particularly tents, as winter is approaching and most Gazans have been forced to flee their homes.
