West Bank and Gaza face worsening humanitarian crisis

The humanitarian situation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip is deteriorating rapidly, according to United Nations reports. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns of a severe funding shortage that could result in only half the necessary number of people receiving food assistance starting in September. The number of people in need has doubled over the last two years due to Israeli military operations, settler violence, restrictions on movement, and the destruction of homes.

In the West Bank, approximately one million people—a quarter of the population—face frequent food insecurity. Reports indicate an increase in settler attacks, with the UN counting more than seven incidents per day on average. Additionally, home demolitions and the clearing of refugee camps have contributed to rising displacement and tension.

In the Gaza Strip, conditions are described as brutal and unpredictable. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a near doubling of diarrheal diseases between January and August due to unhygienic conditions, including waste accumulation and lack of clean water. Access to essential supplies, such as diesel for bakeries, remains severely restricted by Israeli border controls.