Saudi Arabia urged the international community on Friday to pressure Israel into lifting its Gaza blockade immediately. Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan declared after meeting with regional counterparts in southern Turkey, “The world must act now to ensure uninterrupted humanitarian aid reaches Gaza.”
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
Israel shut all Gaza crossings on 2 March, blocking food, fuel, and essential supplies. Severe shortages now push prices higher and accelerate famine risks, aid groups warn. Over 1.5 million displaced Palestinians endure freezing temperatures in makeshift shelters. Critical fuel shortages threaten hospitals, water systems, and aid deliveries, risking total collapse of basic services.
Relentless Israeli airstrikes have destroyed 72% of Gaza’s homes, schools, and hospitals, local authorities report. Moreover, Gaza’s Health Ministry states Israel’s offensive has killed 50,886 people, mostly women and children, and injured 115,875. Thousands remain trapped under rubble. The strikes have killed dozens of journalists and aid workers. Meanwhile, families dig trenches in frozen ground to shield children from bombs and cold.
UN Warns of Imminent Famine
Humanitarian agencies stress famine is imminent without urgent aid. The UN warns Gaza’s 2.3 million people, already at breaking point, risk mass starvation without food, water, and medicine. Saudi Arabia’s call for maximum pressure on Israel underscores its role in the humanitarian effort. The kingdom has condemned Israel’s use of aid as a tool of extortion and collective punishment. This stance aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to regional stability and humanitarian principles.
