PALESTINIANS in Gaza told Al Jazeera that Israel’s latest blockade of the flow of humanitarian aid has caused severe food shortages and high prices at a time when the entirety of the territory’s population is facing enormous needs — and as many are fasting during the day for the holy month of Ramadan.
“There was already a shortage of goods even before the closures, and this has only made the situation worse, increasing the suffering of the people,” said Fathi Abu al-Ula, in Khan Younis.
“Prices have skyrocketed, rising to three or even four times what they were—especially for vegetables and essential food supplies. This is particularly true for baby food and other child-related products.”
Abu al-Ula added that prices have risen in response to the high demand. “This is especially critical during this holy month, when people rely on shopping for essential food items, particularly vegetables, to observe Ramadan, prepare for religious gatherings, and host family events,” he said.
“Families need food for their children, the elderly, and the sick — many of whom have already been suffering from malnutrition for a long time.”
Radwan Ahmed, also in Khan Younis, said that there was no chicken, meat or soda to be found at the market.
“There is absolutely nothing,” he said. “We started fasting three days ago, so imagine what the situation will be like after a week of fasting. There is nothing, and aid is not reaching the poor and those in need. There is simply nothing.”
Meanwhile, former tank commander Eyal Zamir has been sworn in as Israel’s new military chief amid growing uncertainty over the expired ceasefire in Gaza.
Previously director of the defence ministry, the 59-year-old replaces chief of staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, who resigned in January admitting he had failed to fulfil his mandate.
At his swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday at military headquarters in Tel Aviv, Zamir said he was ready for the challenges ahead, noting that while “Hamas has indeed suffered a severe blow … it has not yet been defeated. The mission is not yet accomplished.”
Speaking before Zamir, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was “determined” to achieve victory in its war.
Fighting in Gaza has been halted since January under the first phase of a multistage truce brokered by Qatar and Egypt and supported by the United States that has allowed the exchange of 33 Israeli captives and 5 Thai captives for about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
