United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has suspended its aid operations in Gaza following a deadly Israeli military operation that resulted in the deaths of 274 Palestinians. The suspension, announced on June 10 by WFP Director Cindy McCain, follows an incident in which rockets struck two WFP warehouses, injuring one staff member.
The temporary port, established by the United States in May, had been a crucial conduit for aid to the beleaguered Gaza Strip. After a hurricane-induced closure, the port had only just reopened on June 8 when the Israeli army launched an offensive using the port as a staging ground. This offensive, aimed at rescuing four Israeli hostages held by Hamas for eight months, culminated in the tragic Nusseirat massacre within the refugee camp.
“We are deeply concerned about the safety of our staff,” McCain stated. “In light of the recent events, we have decided to halt operations temporarily to reassess and ensure the secure delivery of aid before resuming our relief efforts. However, our work in other parts of Gaza will continue.”
The Israeli media reported heightened security measures at the American port due to fears of a potential Hamas attack. This tense environment underscores the complexities and dangers faced by humanitarian operations in conflict zones.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is in the Middle East, endeavoring to broker a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The suspension of WFP aid highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict, which has devastating humanitarian consequences.
The cessation of aid will undoubtedly exacerbate the dire situation in Gaza, where many depend on external assistance for survival. The international community watches closely as efforts to mediate a ceasefire continue, hoping for a swift end to the violence and a return to stability.