Gaza Aid Trucks Overrun by Desperate Crowds as Hunger Crisis Worsens
Crowds of hungry civilians in Gaza have rushed aid trucks carrying essential food supplies, the World Food Programme (WFP) has reported, highlighting the severe hunger gripping the region amid ongoing conflict and blockade. Overnight and early Saturday, WFP brought in 77 trucks loaded with flour through the Kerem Shalom border crossing between Israel and Gaza.
The trucks were stopped along the route as hungry families took food directly from the deliveries in chaotic scenes. Due to the high risk that convoys would not reach their storage warehouses, WFP allowed this direct distribution to ensure people received aid.
Despite Israel easing an 11-week blockade on 19 May, the UN warns that deliveries have amounted to only around 10% of the food needs of Gaza’s two million residents. “Starving people will not let a food truck pass,” said WFP spokeswoman Abeer Etefa, describing the desperation of civilians who cannot wait for formal distribution points.
A UN-backed assessment labels Gaza’s entire population at “critical risk” of famine. Aid workers face numerous challenges including insecure routes, delayed approvals, and massive crowds that disrupt controlled distribution.
Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continue, with 60 deaths reported over the last 24 hours by Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. Hospitals are overwhelmed, with malnutrition complicating recovery from injuries, especially for children.
Four Arab countries condemned Israel’s blocking of their planned diplomatic visit to the West Bank, highlighting ongoing regional tensions as international efforts seek a peaceful resolution.
