We Are Starving Too: Gaza Humanitarian Workers Paralyzed by Hunger Amid Israeli Blockade

Below is a statement by Sharaf Al FAQAWI, HI Gaza Area Manager, on the starvation of humanitarian workers in the Gaza Strip.

 “Just like the over two million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, we humanitarian workers are also being starved, displaced, and killed. For almost two years now, every single day, we must juggle between surviving this war, caring for ourselves and families, and serving the most vulnerable. Hunger has reached its peak, with children and babies dying of starvation.

 There is no food, clean water, medicine, or fuel, among other basic needs. Hundreds are being killed at militarized aid distribution sites. It’s a tough choice of dying of hunger or getting killed while trying to get food. We cannot fully operate or serve those in need — not only because we lack the necessary aid and equipment due to the Israeli blockade, the relentless bombardment, and forced displacement — but also because we ourselves are growing weak from hunger and malnutrition.

 You can see the impact on their bodies and in their eyes — our staff are becoming dizzy, weak, and drained of energy. Although they remain committed to their mission, they can no longer focus or work as they did before. Many of our activities require physical movement and effort, such as our risk awareness sessions on explosive ordnance and our physical rehabilitation work. The coming days are very critical. If this situation persists, we could see some of HI's aid workers collapsing while on duty.”