DaysofPal – Hisham Mhanna, spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has warned that the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is on the brink of total collapse. This comes amid a relentless blockade, the resumption of large-scale Israeli attacks, and escalating evacuation orders that continue to exacerbate civilian suffering and place lives at severe risk.
In recent press remarks, Mhanna noted that the ICRC had warned weeks ago of reaching this critical stage. He described the current conditions as “almost impossible” for an effective humanitarian response, citing a sustained blockade on aid entry that has persisted for over two months.
“We are closely monitoring the mechanisms for delivering humanitarian aid following the Israeli authorities’ announcement of a partial reopening of the crossings,” Mhanna stated. “However, the volume of aid entering Gaza remains grossly insufficient in light of the surging humanitarian needs.” He added that the prolonged lack of aid has significantly worsened the crisis, particularly as food shortages deepen and prices soar.
Mhanna reaffirmed that, under international law, Israel—as the occupying power—bears full legal responsibility for ensuring that the basic needs of Gaza’s civilian population are met.
He also condemned the politicization of humanitarian aid, stressing that such assistance must be delivered according to the fundamental humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
Despite the deteriorating conditions, Mhanna affirmed that the ICRC continues to operate transparently and independently. “We receive distress calls daily from civilians trapped or in urgent need, and we respond to them immediately,” he said.
Since the renewal of Israeli military operations on 18 March, thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded, he added. Repeated evacuation orders have only intensified fear and anxiety, particularly given the absence of safe shelter.
In closing, Mhanna urged the international community to “flood Gaza with humanitarian aid and immediately halt the bloodshed.” He called for full, unimpeded humanitarian access and reaffirmed the ICRC’s ongoing dialogue with all parties, including the Israeli authorities, to alleviate suffering and protect civilians.
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