The Blockade Continues. . .

Even before the most recent violence in Gaza, thousands of children were facing a humanitarian crisis, with little access to food, water, and health care.  As we pass the second year anniversary of the blockade on Gaza, today Gaza’s children continue to subsist on minimal nutrition, some live in tents, and for those who have structures still standing, they must live with holes in their walls, no windows, and no running water.

Due to the ongoing blockade, the amount of goods allowed into Gaza is one quarter of the pre- blockade flow. Eight out of every ten truckloads contains food but even that is restricted, affecting the lives of the entire population with children and the elderly being the most vulnerable.  The number food items actually permitted to enter Gaza is limited to 18, with prohibited goods such Halva, tea, and juice powder making the prohibition list. Seedlings and calves are not allowed and often clothes, shoes, toys and school books are prohibited.  Gazan’s are being kept on life support through the limited humanitarian aid allowed to enter.

Former President Jimmy Carter on his recent trip to Gaza stated, “Now, the aftermath of bombs, missiles, tanks, bulldozers and the continuing economic siege have brought death, destruction, pain, and suffering to the people here. Tragically, the international community largely ignores the cries for help, while the citizens of Gaza are being treated more like animals than human beings.” Further President Carter stated, “I understand even paper and crayons are treated as "security hazards" and not permitted to enter Gaza.”

On her recent trip to Gaza Dr. Laila Al-Marayati, Chairwoman of Kinder USA, spoke with many who felt they were “trapped” and as one mother put it, “The world looks at Gazan’s as if we are cockroaches with no human value at all”. 

Visiting one of the UNRWA funded schools Dr. Al-Marayati was met with students who were “bewildered and saddened” by the lack of support from the outside world which, in their mind, sat by while they were assaulted.  One of the students, Hatem, wanted the world to think of them as “human beings, normal teenagers who are just like them”.

“As we left Gaza, saying our goodbye’s, I felt as if we had just finished visiting people in jail, and while they were still trapped inside, we were free to leave”, said Dr. Al-Marayati.

Kinder USA continues its work in the region as we prepare for the month of Ramadan, working with local farmers to produce agriculture for distribution to families who will shop with vouchers for fresh produce, eggs, and cheese.  Please continue to support our important work as it is one way the children in Gaza will know we have not abandoned them.