Israel’s continued closure of Gaza’s crossings for a second week has plunged the besieged territory into a deepening humanitarian crisis, with women and children suffering the most. The blockade, imposed after the first phase of the ceasefire ended, has cut off fuel, cooking gas, and essential supplies, leaving over 2.4 million Palestinians in dire straits.  

Ismail Thawabta, Director General of the Government Media Office, condemned the blockade as a blatant violation of international law, accusing Israel of using starvation and deprivation as weapons. Dozens of bakeries have shut down, public transport has ground to a halt, and thousands are unable to access hospitals or work.  

“This is collective punishment,” Thawabta said. “The international community must act now to pressure Israel to reopen the crossings and allow humanitarian aid.”  

Women and children, who make up 70% of Gaza’s casualties, are bearing the brunt. Over 12,000 women have been killed, and 690,000 lack access to menstrual hygiene products, according to the UN. Pregnant women face unimaginable conditions, with 214 newborns dying shortly after birth due to the war.  

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reports that over 4,000 children and mothers suffer from severe malnutrition. With aid blocked for 12 days, Gaza’s population faces starvation, disease, and despair.  

As the world watches, Palestinians in Gaza endure unimaginable suffering. The question remains: how long will the international community allow this catastrophe to continue?