Gaza: The government in Gaza has warned that restrictions imposed by Israel are putting the operations of the US-based nonprofit organization World Central Kitchen (WCK) at risk of suspension, cautioning that the humanitarian crisis in the enclave could deepen further.
According to Anadolu Agency, Gaza's Government Media Office stated that reports had emerged indicating that World Central Kitchen may halt its activities in Gaza in the coming days due to 'serious obstacles imposed by Israel on the ground.' The statement highlighted that the number of aid trucks permitted to enter daily with food supplies has reduced significantly, dropping from 25 to five.
Officials noted that this decrease has substantially weakened the organization's ability to operate effectively, threatening the continuity of food services that thousands rely on each day. The office further mentioned pressure to purchase raw materials from inside Israel instead of relying on shipments previously delivered from Egypt, which alters the humanitarian supply chain, increases costs, and creates additional barriers to aid operations.
The statement called on journalists and media organizations to cover the issue with professional responsibility, urging balanced coverage that reflects the humanitarian dimension without causing public panic. It emphasized that the root cause of a potential crisis lies in restrictions on the entry of aid, warning that continued limitations could push the Gaza Strip into a deeper crisis. The statement accused Israel of 'restricting humanitarian aid in violation of international humanitarian law provisions and its obligations toward civilians.'
World Central Kitchen previously stated that it provides approximately 1 million free meals daily in Gaza amid severe humanitarian conditions and food shortages. In a statement on Monday, the organization affirmed its commitment to continuing meal distribution operations as long as necessary food supplies could be secured. It also highlighted the urgent need for safe and consistent humanitarian access to maintain operations, stressing that a sustainable flow of aid is crucial.
The nonprofit reported that several of its staff members were killed during Israeli attacks on Gaza and noted instances where operations were suspended due to Israel preventing the entry of food aid trucks.