On August 2, 2025, Palestinians in Gaza City were seen carrying empty pots, waiting for lentil soup at a food distribution point. The World Health Organisation (WHO) had previously warned that malnutrition in Gaza was reaching "alarming levels."
The United Nations reported that 6,000 trucks were waiting for permission from Israel to enter the occupied Palestinian territory. This situation arose amidst international criticism following a visit by Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and the German military's initial food airdrops into Gaza. Aid agencies have stated that over two million Palestinians are facing starvation.
The German government acknowledged limited progress in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, but deemed it insufficient to address the emergency. They emphasized Israel's obligation to ensure full aid delivery. Facing international pressure, Israel has permitted more trucks to cross the border and allowed some nations to conduct airdrops of food and medicine. However, international agencies maintain that the amount of aid entering Gaza remains dangerously low.
The German government also expressed concern over reports that large quantities of humanitarian aid were being withheld by Hamas and criminal organizations. Israel has alleged that Hamas is diverting aid. Furthermore, the Israeli army has been accused of equipping Palestinian criminal networks and allowing them to plunder aid deliveries.
A German government source indicated that Israel had "considerably" increased the number of aid trucks allowed into Gaza, reaching approximately 220 per day. Berlin has adopted a stricter stance against Israel's actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. A German security cabinet meeting discussed options for pressuring Israel, including a potential partial suspension of arms deliveries.
The conflict began with an attack by Hamas militants in Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in numerous deaths. Israel's subsequent military offensive in Gaza has caused a significant number of Palestinian casualties, according to Gaza's health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the UN.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Germany's stance is commendable! We need more countries to advocate for humanitarian support in conflict zones.
Muchacho
This is a classic case of the media portraying Israel as the villain without addressing the real source of the conflict.
ZmeeLove
We need to amplify the voices calling for justice and aid for the millions suffering in Gaza.
Habibi
It's crucial to hold Israel accountable for the blockade that exacerbates the crisis for innocent civilians.
Muchacha
The amount of aid entering Gaza is clearly insufficient. We need to demand more transparency and action!