Suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza will lead to more suffering

Family homes. Image NRC

Source: NRC

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) warns that Israel halting all entry of aid into Gaza, amid stalled ceasefire efforts, will have devastating consequences for over two million civilians who are already facing starvation and extreme deprivation.

"Humanitarian aid is not a privilege-it is a right," said Angelita Caredda, NRC's Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa. "People in Gaza are already facing desperate conditions. With food supplies running out, hospitals unable to function, and families struggling to find clean water, any restrictions on aid will push the civilian population beyond collapse."

The ceasefire brought some much-needed relief to Gaza, but it was far from enough to cover the immense needs. Hospitals in Gaza are barely operational, with fuel, medical supplies, and equipment dwindling, leaving the wounded and sick without care. The uncertainty over the ceasefire threatens humanitarian access, with aid deliveries halted and civilians once again deprived of food, water, and medical assistance. Under international law, civilians must be protected, and humanitarian access must be guaranteed.

"NRC urges all parties to uphold their obligations under international law and to allow the immediate, safe, and sustained entry of humanitarian assistance," Caredda added. "The Government of Israel must immediately reverse this decision. International actors must do everything in their power to ensure access to Gaza resumes, so that aid reaches those in need without any further delay or disruption."

NRC calls for the immediate restoration of humanitarian access and the prioritisation of civilian protection. International law is clear: civilians must not be starved, medical facilities must be safeguarded, and humanitarian organisations must be allowed to deliver aid independently and without obstruction. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further suffering and work towards a lasting ceasefire that upholds the rights and dignity of all those affected.

As the occupying power, Israel is legally bound under Article 59(1) of the Fourth Geneva Convention to allow and facilitate humanitarian relief for civilians in need. The deliberate obstruction of aid constitutes a grave breach of the Convention and a war crime under international law.

Since the ceasefire came into effect, NRC has provided critical humanitarian assistance, including cash support to more than 21,500 individuals, daily clean water for over 130,000 people, and emergency shelter for more than 13,500 individuals. NRC also distributed hygiene kits, provided legal aid, operated temporary learning spaces, and delivered protection services to those most at risk.