Hamas warns of famine that threatens Gaza Strip
GAZA, Mar. 12 (YPA) – Hamas movement’s spokesman Hazem Qassem confirmed that the people of the Gaza Strip are facing the looming threat of a real famine due to the ongoing Israeli blockade, which has prevented food supplies from entering the Strip for the tenth consecutive day.
Qassem noted that the humanitarian situation has been dire since the beginning of the Israeli aggression.
He explained that the Gaza Strip is experiencing a stifling food crisis, with residents suffering from a severe shortage of basic necessities as a result of the ongoing blockade.
Qassem emphasized that the closure of the crossings constitutes a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement, which stipulates the facilitation of unrestricted humanitarian access.
In a related context, Hamas issued a statement today affirming that the continued closure of the crossings and the denial of humanitarian aid to the Strip constitute a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions, considering it a war crime and collective punishment against civilians.
He added that this policy has led to a significant increase in food prices and a severe shortage of medical supplies, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the Strip.
The statement also noted that the closure of the crossings is hampering recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, as it prevents the entry of heavy equipment necessary for relief operations.
The movement emphasized that the Palestinian people will not surrender to what it described as the occupation’s policy of using aid as a political bargaining chip but will continue their steadfastness and struggle to achieve their legitimate rights.
Concluding the statement, Hamas called on the Arab League to implement the decisions taken at the last summit and intensify pressure on the Israeli occupation to open the crossings and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid. It also demanded an end to the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.
Separately, UNRWA High Commissioner Philippe Lazzarini expressed his concern about the current situation in Gaza, noting that it has become similar to the conditions witnessed in the region in October 2023.
Lazzarini affirmed that Israel’s prevention of aid entry threatens the lives of civilians and exposes them to the risk of being left without basic necessities of life.
YPA