Despite a brief respite from the most visible signs of famine, Gaza’s food situation remains dire, with supplies meeting less than half of the population’s basic needs. Local economic officials warn that the enclave faces a chronic shortage of essential goods and an alarming lack of food diversity, as restrictions continue to choke the entry of vital supplies.

Dr Maher Al-Tabbaa, Director of the Gaza Chamber of Commerce, explained that while some aid has entered since the ceasefire, the range of available products represents only a fraction of what is required. “Food diversity has almost disappeared,” he said, noting that essential items such as eggs, milk, dairy products, and meat are either unavailable or sold at prices far beyond what most families can afford. He stressed that claims of food security were “entirely inaccurate,” as current deliveries meet barely half of the Strip’s daily consumption needs.

According to Al-Tabbaa, of the roughly 400 trucks reported to enter Gaza each day, only around 120 carry food. Official figures suggest that fewer than 1,000 humanitarian aid trucks have entered since the ceasefire began, far below the 6,600 promised under the humanitarian agreement. Economic observers caution that without a stable, monitored mechanism ensuring the daily delivery of at least 600 aid trucks carrying food, medicine, and fuel, markets will remain volatile and families will continue to struggle for survival.