In Gaza, food supplies are dwindling as community kitchens warn they may soon run out of resources. Two months after Israel imposed a blockade, the situation has become increasingly dire for many families in the region.
Sami Matar, who leads a kitchen run by the humanitarian organization Anera in Khan Younis, explained that they are now serving simple meals like koshari, which consists of lentils and rice, instead of more nutritious options that included meat. He noted that many families have no income to buy food from local markets, where options are limited.
The blockade, which began two months ago, has closed all crossings into Gaza. This has stopped the flow of essential goods, including food, fuel, and medicine. The United Nations has reported that their food aid stocks have been exhausted. As a result, the pressure is mounting on Israel to lift the blockade, with warnings that starvation could soon follow. The UN’s humanitarian chief emphasized that aid should not be used as a bargaining tool, as blocking it harms civilians and violates international law.
Anera’s kitchen in Khan Younis currently feeds about 6,000 people daily. However, Matar expressed concern that their supplies could run out in just two weeks. Before the blockade, they received over 100 trucks of food and supplies each week. Now, their warehouse is nearly empty, and they struggle to provide basic ingredients like rice and cooking oil.
The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, which has seen more than 52,400 people killed in Gaza, primarily women and children. With over 90% of the population displaced, many are relying on community kitchens for survival. Matar shared that they used to have ample supplies but now face a critical shortage, with rising costs making it difficult to procure even the basics.
As the blockade continues, families are left to fend for themselves, often resorting to collecting leaves to start fires for cooking. One mother described the humiliation of their situation, saying they cannot afford to buy food or gas for cooking.
Internationally, there is a growing call for action. Leaders have urged Israel to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza. Despite claims from Israeli officials that aid is being monitored and delivered, many in Gaza are still struggling to find enough food.
As the community kitchens work tirelessly to provide meals, the future remains uncertain. Matar’s plea for help reflects the desperation of many in Gaza: "Please, we just need to open the crossings again."