Despite the ICJ ruling, adequate aid is not reaching people in Gaza

On January 26th, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) warned that people in Gaza face a real and imminent risk of genocide. The court issued six provisional measures ordering Israel to take specific steps to stop this including to provide urgent help like food, water, and medicine to the people there. Despite this, Israel has increased its attacks, making it very hard for help to reach Gaza.

The situation in Gaza is unprecedented. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), more than two million people are on the brink of starvation. The healthcare system is overwhelmed, with most hospitals struggling to function under the strain of too many patients and not enough supplies. The lack of electricity and fuel has plunged the area into even deeper crisis, hindering efforts to provide lifesaving services and complicating the already dire humanitarian situation.

Diseases are spreading rapidly due to overcrowded living conditions and inadequate sanitation. Children and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable, facing severe health risks without proper nutrition or medical care. The situation is so desperate that some women have resorted to using scraps of material as basic feminine hygiene supplies.

Israel needs to lift the restrictions that are making it so hard for help to get to Gaza. They should make sure hospitals are safe and let more aid in.

The best way to help people in Gaza right now and prevent a genocide continues to be an immediate and sustained ceasefire by all parties.