Jakarta, IDN Times - The World Food Programme (WFP) stated that a humanitarian aid convoy operated by the WFP came under fire after crossing the Zikim border into northern Gaza in the morning on Saturday (20/7/2025).
According to a statement from WFP on their social media account X @WFP, it was explained that 25 trucks carrying essential food aid were sent to reach (people) facing extreme hunger in the northern area of the Gaza Strip.
However, not long after passing the last checkpoint in Zikim, the convoy was surrounded by a large crowd of desperate civilians waiting for food distribution.
Tragically, as the convoy approached, the crowd was attacked with gunfire from Israeli forces, including tanks and snipers.
"We are very concerned and grieving over this tragic incident that resulted in the loss of many lives. These people were only trying to get food for themselves and their families on the brink of starvation. This incident highlights how increasingly dangerous the situation in Gaza has become for humanitarian operations," said WFP, quoted on Monday (7/21/2025).
1. Armed forces should not attack aid convoys
WFP stated that this incident occurred despite guarantees from Israeli authorities that the aid convoy would be given safe access and would not be disturbed by military presence along the delivery route.
"Armed forces should not be near, let alone attack aid convoys. This is a basic humanitarian principle that we have emphasized to all parties involved in the conflict," said WFP.
This world food organization also demands that all forms of shooting and violence against humanitarian missions be completely stopped.
"Violence against civilians seeking assistance is unacceptable in any form," he added.
2. Cases of malnutrition have increased
WFP explained the situation in Gaza, stating that WFP has reached an unprecedented level of famine emergency. Nearly one in three residents is reported to have not eaten for days. Flour prices have skyrocketed to more than 100 US dollars per kilogram in local markets.
"Persons are dying due to lack of humanitarian aid. Malnutrition has surged, with 90,000 women and children in critical need of care. Nearly one in three people have not eaten for days. Food assistance is the only way for most people to access any food, as the price of a one-kilogram bag of flour has jumped to over 100 dollars in local markets," said WFP.
WFP stated that only a large-scale increase in food distribution can stabilize the situation and restore public confidence in international aid.
3. WFP calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza
WFP once again called for the importance of the agreed ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the guarantee of safe, orderly, and consistent access for food aid to all areas of Gaza.
"We are ready. We have the supplies, an experienced team, and a proven system capable of responding on a large scale. We have done it before, and we are ready to do it again," stated WFP.
The organization urged the international community and all parties involved in the conflict to immediately facilitate the delivery of food aid to the starving population in Gaza without obstacles, safely, and reaching all affected areas.
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