With 93% of Gaza’s population at risk of famine due to the ongoing Israeli blockade of aid, the current form of militarised aid is both inadequate and dehumanising. Small packages of flour and biscuits, delivered under armed conditions, cannot meet the urgent needs of a malnourished population—particularly the 14,000 children suffering severe acute malnutrition who require specialised care immediately.

There is a dignified, effective, principled model for aid delivery. The UN and its humanitarian partners, including the Dutch Relief Alliance, have the experience and capacity to provide neutral, life-saving assistance. The UN-coordinated humanitarian system is the only legitimate and principled mechanism. Undermining this system endangers lives and weakens accountability.

Thousands of trucks, including from Dutch Relief Alliance, with humanitarian supplies remain at Gaza’s borders, blocked by Israel from entry. According to OCHA, only a rapid increase in access to pre-positioned aid can prevent further loss of life. In addition to food, people need clean water, healthcare, shelter, and protection. A health facility in Jabalia from the Dutch Relief Alliance is not operating anymore because of evacuation order from Israel. Massive scale-up of all types of humanitarian services is urgently needed to prevent further deaths right before our eyes.

The Dutch Relief Alliance calls on the Dutch government and the international community to demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire, lift the Israeli blockade, and ensure immediate safe and principled humanitarian access, so that meaningful aid can reach those who need it the most. 

The Dutch Relief Alliance Joint Response in Gaza aims to provide urgent humanitarian assistance, protect vulnerable communities, alleviate the burden of food insecurity, restore essential healthcare services, and address the severe mental health and psycho-social challenges facing those affected by the crisis. Led by War Child, with partner organisations including CARE, Oxfam Novib, Save the Children, Plan International, and Terre des Hommes, the initiative focuses on WASH services, healthcare, food security, multi-purpose cash assistance, and protection. 

Spokesperson DRA JR for Gaza: Juliette Verhoeven

E: juliette.verhoeven@savethechildren.nl

T: 06 40931544

Photo Credit: War Child (2024)