Gaza faces worsening humanitarian crisis as Israel shuts crossings

Residents of Gaza rushed to markets after Israel announced the closure of border crossings in the enclave and on the West Bank “until further notice” due to the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the US, and Iran, as the territory reels under an escalating humanitarian crisis.

People stocked up on sugar, flour, cooking oil, and yeast, quickly emptying shelves and driving up prices for basic goods, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Many families, especially displaced households, are struggling with food storage and financial constraints.

Local traders and activists warn that the border closures could halt the distribution of humanitarian aid, suspend charitable kitchens, and complicate medical travel abroad. 

According to the Palestinian Businessmen Association, Gaza’s economy has already shrunk by more than 85%, unemployment approaches 80%, and over 97% of industrial enterprises have ceased operations.

Residents express anxiety and fear of repeating past periods of hunger and shortages, when border closures sharply increased prices and limited food availability.

Many are calling for the immediate reopening of crossings and international intervention to stabilise the humanitarian situation.

By Jeyhun Aghazada