Despite the entry of hundreds of aid trucks, looting and security issues continue to prevent vital supplies from reaching Gaza’s people
On January 21, 2025, 915 aid trucks entered Gaza under the terms of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, marking the second day of peace after 15 months of conflict. The deliveries, coordinated by the United Nations with support from the US, Qatar, and Egypt, are part of a plan that aims to deliver 600 truckloads of aid daily, including crucial fuel shipments.
However, the distribution of these supplies has faced significant obstacles. Despite a high number of trucks entering Gaza in December, with a total of 2,892 aid trucks reported, only a fraction of the goods reached those in need. In December, only 72 trucks of supplies were delivered daily, and the situation worsened in early January, with just 51 trucks a day reaching their destination. Looting and security concerns have stalled the aid distribution, further exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.
Experts are particularly concerned about Gaza’s northern region, where warnings of an impending famine are growing. Half of the aid deliveries are designated for this area, but the ongoing logistical challenges are threatening the effectiveness of relief efforts. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has described the conditions as “catastrophic,” calling for urgent international cooperation to restore order and prevent further looting. He also emphasized the necessity of unhindered access for humanitarian aid operations, including the safe entry of medical supplies and the removal of unexploded ordnance.
Guterres urged both Israel and Hamas to cooperate with the United Nations to ensure the effective distribution of aid and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The world continues to watch as the aid effort struggles to meet the needs of the 2.3 million displaced and suffering residents in the region.
