Jerusalem: The European Union (EU) announced on October 9, 2023, that it was suspending humanitarian aid to Gaza. The decision was made in response to a recent attack on Israel by Hamas, the militant group that controls the Gaza Strip.
The EU is one of the largest donors of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians, providing over €296 million in 2022. The aid is used to provide essential services such as food, water, healthcare, and education to millions of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
The suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza has raised concerns among humanitarian organizations. They warn that the suspension could have a devastating impact on the civilian population of Gaza, which is already struggling with poverty and unemployment.
The EU has said that the suspension of aid will be temporary and that it will be reviewed on a regular basis. However, it is unclear when the aid will be resumed.
In the meantime, the suspension of aid is likely to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Gaza Strip is already facing a number of challenges, including a blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt, a shortage of clean water, and a lack of electricity.
EU’s decision comes after the Israel-Palestine conflict entered third day with the devastating toll of at least 1300 people dead and many casualties. In latest update, Israel has ordered to cut the water supply to Gaza with immediate effect. Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu has tweeted to make it clear that Israel never wanted war and that it has been forced upon them by an abominable enemy, human beasts who celebrate murder of children, women, and elderly.
In the midst of the escalating conflict, 18000 Indian nationals have been reported to be caught in the dire circumstances. The streets and highways have turned to be battle grounds, Indian citizens including care takers, engineers, IT professionals, and students are stuck in Israel. The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has become a lifeline for stranded Indians including thousands of stranded tourists.