Gaza: The UN's top humanitarian official issued a dire warning on Sunday about the rapidly worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting that one in three people hasn't eaten "for days" and that children are in critical condition due to severe food shortages.

According to Anadolu Agency, Tom Fletcher, the under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, welcomed Israel's decision to allow a temporary increase in aid, including lifting customs barriers and easing movement restrictions. Initial reports suggest that over 100 truckloads of aid have been collected from crossings to be transported into Gaza.

Fletcher described the development as "progress" but stressed that significant amounts of aid are essential to prevent famine and a catastrophic health crisis. He emphasized the need for urgent and sustained access, faster convoy clearances, multiple daily trips to crossings, consistent fuel supplies, and safe humanitarian corridors that are free from attacks. "People are being shot just trying to get food to feed their families," he noted. "Aid must not be blocked, delayed, or come under fire."

Fletcher also reiterated the UN's demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and called for a permanent ceasefire. Despite international calls for a cessation of hostilities, the Israeli army has continued its offensive on Gaza since October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of nearly 60,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children. The continuous bombardment has devastated the enclave and led to severe food shortages.

In addition, last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions against the enclave.