Aid into Gaza reported to have stopped since March 7, deepening humanitarian crisis

Aid into Gaza has reportedly ceased since March 7, deepening the humanitarian crisis for Christian and Palestinian communities. Church officials warn that blocked aid, disrupted schools, and shrinking livelihoods are pushing families toward desperation. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s Development Office director, George Akroush, stated that no humanitarian shipments have reached Gaza since that date, leaving hospitals without essential supplies such as medicine, antibiotics, and spare parts. The Church is also struggling to support the territory’s only Christian hospital, which is located near the Catholic compound, due to cut-off communication channels with Israeli authorities.

Israeli authorities announced the indefinite closure of crossings into Gaza from March 1, citing security concerns. This decision came shortly after the start of the war with Iran. Akroush told Aid to the Church in Need that the closure has forced the Church to reconsider plans to reopen one of Gaza’s Christian schools, which had been set to welcome students back in phases. The situation has left many in dire need, with around 250 people still sheltering at Holy Family Church in Gaza, including 50 people with disabilities cared for by the Missionaries of Charity. Although some 300 people were able to leave during the ceasefire, many remain in precarious conditions.

Pressure is also mounting in the West Bank. Aid agencies such as Caritas, Oxfam, and Save the Children have been required to comply with new rules or risk losing the ability to operate in Palestinian communities. Israeli officials maintain that these tighter licensing measures are necessary due to concerns about links between some aid workers and militant groups. Akroush described the deep economic strain caused by movement restrictions, noting that before the October 7, 2023, attacks, 180,000 Palestinians from the West Bank held permits to work in Israel. That number has since dropped sharply, with many losing access to their jobs altogether.

Christian schools in Jerusalem have also been affected, as a substantial share of teachers and support staff commute daily from the West Bank. Akroush questioned official explanations that checkpoint restrictions are due to limited manpower, suggesting many Christians see the policy as part of broader pressure on Palestinian communities. He also warned that more Christian families are now considering emigration due to the worsening conditions.

The situation highlights the urgent need for humanitarian aid and the protection of vulnerable populations. As the crisis continues, the Church remains a vital presence in providing care and support to those in need. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humble service, which are essential in addressing the suffering of the displaced and the impoverished.

Source: Read the original report