For the first time since the fragile ceasefire took effect on 19 January, a humanitarian aid ship has arrived at Egypt’s al-Arish port, carrying much-needed supplies for Gaza’s devastated population. The Turkish vessel, loaded with 871 tonnes of aid—including generators, mobile sanitation units, tents, and blankets—offers a glimmer of relief to displaced Palestinians. However, as families in Gaza struggle to survive in the ruins of their homes, Israel continues to obstruct critical aid, delaying lifesaving supplies.

Despite Israeli claims to the contrary, Palestinian officials have accused Tel Aviv of stalling the entry of essential materials such as fuel, tents, and heavy machinery—items crucial for makeshift shelters and survival. With 69% of Gaza’s infrastructure destroyed or damaged, and nearly the entire population displaced, these delays are not mere logistical hurdles; they are a continuation of the suffering inflicted on Palestinians.

Meanwhile, Israel has escalated its crackdown on humanitarian efforts by severing all ties with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), falsely accusing it of involvement in the 7 October attack. This move threatens to dismantle one of the last remaining lifelines for Gaza’s population, raising fears of an even deeper humanitarian catastrophe.

As Palestinian civilians continue to endure the consequences of relentless bombardment and blockade, the Israeli government's obstruction of aid exposes the harsh reality behind its policies: a systematic effort to break the resilience of an entire people.