The World Food Programme has suspended employee movement in Gaza following an incident where one of its vehicles was repeatedly targeted by gunfire near an Israeli checkpoint. Despite being clearly marked and having received several clearances from Israeli authorities, the vehicle was hit while approaching an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) checkpoint.
The armored vehicle, which was one of two returning from a humanitarian mission, showed multiple bullet impacts, with at least ten bullets striking it. Fortunately, none of the staff on board were injured.
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The IDF has stated that the incident is under review. The World Food Programme, a crucial provider of food relief in Gaza, criticized the current safety protocols, emphasizing that the existing deconfliction system is failing.
This comes amidst severe shortages and ongoing airstrikes that have forced many of their facilities to close.
The IDF-designated “humanitarian zone” in Gaza has been significantly reduced, now covering just over 10% of Gaza’s total area. This reduction has made it increasingly difficult for humanitarian operations.
In addition, the UN has lodged a formal protest with Israel, stressing the importance of protecting UN aid workers who operate in conflict zones.
Pressure is building on both Hamas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a ceasefire and address the severe humanitarian crisis, which includes widespread starvation, water shortages, mass displacement, and disease.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 40,000 Palestinians reported killed and more than 93,000 injured since Israel’s military campaign began in response to a Hamas attack on October 7.
