Gaza Blockade Deepens Amid Crisis, Truce Stalemate

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, with the United Nations calling it the worst since the war began 18 months ago, as virtually all aid and essential supplies have been blocked for over six weeks. Israeli officials have confirmed the blockade will remain as a deliberate tactic against Hamas, defying mounting international criticism and accusations of collective punishment and possible war crimes. Hamas has rejected Israel’s latest truce proposal, demanding a comprehensive deal to end the war and urgent intervention to lift the blockade. Some Israeli leaders, including National Security Minister Ben Gvir, have publicly opposed any aid resumption. The blockade persists despite a binding International Court of Justice order, and aid groups warn Gaza’s remaining food and fuel supplies may soon run out. There are growing calls for international media access to Gaza, especially amid widespread disinformation and the deaths of numerous Palestinian journalists.