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Israel’s Blockade and Aggression Intensify Humanitarian Crisis in Palestine

Gaza City: The Palestinian Government Communication Center has released its latest weekly Situation Report, highlighting the severe impact of Israeli actions on occupied Palestine over the past week. The report underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel's continued blockade and military aggression.

According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Israel's blockade of the Karam Abu Salem and Beit Hanoun crossings has entered its 16th day, preventing the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid to Gaza. The blockade, which began on March 2, has led to severe shortages of water and electricity, as well as a dramatic increase in food prices due to halted goods entry. Medical officials have raised alarms about the deteriorating health sector, which is facing shortages of medical supplies and fuel, putting patients' lives at risk.

The situation in Jenin remains critical as Israeli occupation forces continue their aggression for the 56th consecutive day. The Jenin Municipality reports that the number of displaced people from the Jenin refugee camp has reached 21,000, with significant economic damage inflicted on the city. The ongoing aggression has resulted in the closure of nearly 8,000 commercial establishments and the suspension of in-person education for 26,000 students in Jenin and Tulkarem cities.

Similarly, in Tulkarem, the Israeli military's aggression persists for the 50th day, with significant impacts on the local population. The aggression has led to the martyrdom of 13 citizens and the displacement of over 24,000 people. The destruction of infrastructure and homes has further compounded the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The report also highlights a significant increase in crimes committed by Israeli forces and settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth notes a 30% surge in attacks compared to the previous year, with 139 incidents recorded in the first two months of 2025. This escalation of violence has led to widespread displacement and increased restrictions on movement for Palestinians.

Furthermore, an investigation by Haaretz reveals that Israeli authorities are probing the use of Palestinian civilians as human shields by the Israeli army. The investigation follows international pressure and reports by the Red Cross, documenting testimonies from Palestinian civilians coerced into serving as human shields.

A new paper by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry details the Israeli military's systematic use of gender-based violence in Gaza. The report highlights deliberate attacks on sexual and reproductive health care facilities and the increase in violence against women and children.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the Ministry of National Economy has issued an urgent appeal to the United Nations and the international community to pressure Israel to cease its use of starvation tactics in Gaza. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also warned of the dangers of Israel's prolonged aggression and the use of deprivation as weapons against the Palestinian people.

The report concludes with a call for effective international intervention to address Israel's new visa and registration rules targeting international NGOs working in the occupied territories. These measures, the Ministry argues, aim to isolate Palestinians and obscure violations of international law.