The four-day truce between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has given people a brief pause from the fighting, allowing them to gather much-needed supplies and search for loved ones. However, long queues for fuel and aid have formed as people try to make the most of this temporary respite. This article highlights the impact of the truce on the people of Gaza and urges for continued support to address the dire humanitarian situation in the region.
The truce, mediated by Qatar, has provided some relief to the people of Gaza who have been enduring a devastating conflict. During this time, Gazans have been able to visit their damaged homes and retrieve what little is left of their belongings. This bittersweet opportunity has given them a chance to assess the extent of the destruction and mourn the loss of their loved ones. However, the scale of devastation is immense, with over 14,500 people reported dead by the Hamas-run health ministry since Israel’s retaliatory operation commenced.
While the truce has allowed for more supplies to enter Gaza, the amount is still not enough to meet the urgent needs of the population. On the first day of the truce, 150 trucks carrying essential supplies crossed into Gaza from Egypt, marking the largest aid convoy since the conflict began. Despite this, the United Nations emphasizes that more aid is required to address the dire situation on the ground. Communication lines remain largely down across Gaza, but images emerging from the region show long queues forming for fuel and other necessary supplies in Rafah, located in the southern part of the territory.
The process of getting aid into Gaza is slow and arduous, with Israeli military checkpoints and inspections causing significant delays. However, some progress has been made, with fuel and cooking gas tankers successfully entering Gaza. The Palestinian Red Crescent has also mobilized 61 aid trucks carrying food supplies, drinking water, and medicines towards the north of Gaza. This convoy is set to be the largest aid shipment to reach the north since the conflict erupted.
While the truce has brought a temporary respite, it is essential not to overlook the immense challenges that still persist. The UN Relief and Works Agency (Unrwa) has described the situation on the ground as “absolutely terrible,” stressing the urgent need for hygiene items, medical equipment, fuel, and food. Many individuals have been forced to flee with only the clothes on their backs, unable to access proper washing facilities. Overcrowded public shelters, including schools, are housing more than a million displaced people, exacerbating the already dire conditions faced by the population.
In conclusion, the second day of the truce has seen long queues forming for fuel and aid in the Gaza Strip. While the temporary pause in fighting has allowed for some supplies to enter the region, the scale of devastation and urgent humanitarian needs remain significant. Continued support and aid are crucial in addressing the dire situation faced by the people of Gaza and in moving towards a lasting solution that prioritizes peace and stability in the region.
