As tensions between Israel and Iran persist, Palestinians in the Gaza Strip face soaring food prices and border closures. These developments coincide with the expiration of Israel's deadline for 37 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to leave Gaza due to non-compliance with registration requirements.

Israel's Supreme Court allowed the NGOs to continue operating while it reviews their appeal against the ban, but full functionality remains hampered by restrictions on the entry of supplies and foreign staff. These organizations provide half of Gaza's food distributions and 60% of field hospital services.

This month, World Central Kitchen, which is not on the banned list, may suspend operations after Israel blocked most of its supply trucks. The NGO previously reported serving 1 million meals daily.

Additionally, Israel continues its campaign against the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), leading to budget cuts, the dismissal of 600 employees, and salary reductions. The NGO ban could result in thousands of job losses in a context where Gaza's unemployment rate exceeds 80%.

These measures threaten the lives of hundreds of thousands of civilians and risk triggering another hunger crisis, constituting a form of collective punishment against Palestinians.

Source: www.aljazeera.com