UN warns of ‘immense’ needs as Israel allows only one Gaza crossing

The United Nations warned Tuesday of worsening humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip, as Israel has reopened Kerem Shalom crossing — the only approved cargo entry point. UN spokesperson Farhan Haq said that despite aid efforts, “needs remain immense,” with tens of thousands of families living in overcrowded shelters while many others sleep outdoors or in damaged buildings.

Food and shelter crisis

As temperatures rise, tents and makeshift shelters “trap heat and become uninhabitable during the day,” Haq said. Partners have urged the entry of sandbags, timber, plywood, and cement. Families are finding it “increasingly difficult to access food, including bread, following the closure of many kitchens.” By the end of May, 23 partners delivered around 678,000 meals daily through 80 kitchens — down sharply from 1.5 million meals per day provided by 170 kitchens in mid‑March. Israel has blockaded Gaza since 2007. Nearly 1.5 million of 2.4 million Palestinians are now homeless after Israel’s genocidal war destroyed their homes.