Introduction
On August 14, 2025, more than 100 humanitarian groups and aid agencies signed a letter protesting Israel's restrictions on aid coming into Gaza. The letter accuses the current aid distribution system, run by the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, of 'weaponising starvation.' This development has sparked international concern and criticism, with many questioning the impact of Israel's new rules on the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Background
The Gaza Strip has been facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with widespread malnutrition and famine reported in recent months. The crisis has been exacerbated by Israel's restrictions on aid entering the territory. In response to these concerns, Israel established the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation to oversee the distribution of aid.
However, aid groups have expressed concerns about the new rules and regulations imposed by Israel. According to reports, Israel has been blocking critical aid from entering Gaza, citing concerns that Hamas may steal food and supplies. Israel has denied restricting supplies, but aid groups claim that the new rules are 'weaponising aid' and replacing independent organizations with those that serve Israel's political and military agenda.
The New Rules and Their Impact
The new rules require aid groups to register with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and comply with Israel's anti-Hamas regulations. Aid groups have reported being told they are 'not authorised' to deliver supplies, and that Israel is increasingly blocking critical aid from entering Gaza.
The restrictions have had a significant impact on the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Hospital officials have reported more deaths from Israeli air strikes and an increasing toll from malnutrition. The situation has been described as 'catastrophic' by many aid groups, who are calling on Israel to end its restrictions on aid.
International Response
The international community has expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The EU, Britain, and Japan have called for urgent action to stop 'famine' spreading in the Gaza Strip. The United Nations has also expressed concern about the impact of Israel's restrictions on aid.
Conclusion
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with aid groups and the international community calling on Israel to end its restrictions on aid. The impact of Israel's new rules on the humanitarian situation in Gaza is clear, and it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming weeks and months.
Additional Context
The Gaza Strip has been under Israeli blockade since 2007, when Hamas took control of the territory. The blockade has had a significant impact on the economy and humanitarian situation in Gaza. The situation has been described as 'one of the most pressing humanitarian crises in the world' by many aid groups and international organizations.