Devastated roads and lurking bombs hindering Gaza aid effort

Two weeks after the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel took effect, a large amount of aid is flowing into the Gaza Strip. The World Food Programme, the UN's main food agency, stated that in the first four days after the ceasefire, they distributed more food to Palestinians in Gaza than in any single month during the war.

The agency said last week that more than 32,000 tons of aid had entered the region through two northern crossings and one southern crossing since the ceasefire came into effect. Bakeries have reportedly reopened, high-energy biscuits have been distributed, and Gaza police have also returned to the streets to help restore order.

However, humanitarian organizations say that the distribution of aid is complicated by damaged roads, Israeli inspections, and the threat of unexploded ordnance scattered throughout the area. The UN estimates that 5% to 10% of all the ordnance dropped by Israel in Gaza failed to detonate, making the area extremely dangerous for both civilians and aid workers.

Palestinians and aid workers say that ensuring aid reaches everyone remains a difficult battle. Ahmed Kamal, 34, who returned to Jabalia and lives in the ruins of his former home, said that his area has only seen a few dozen aid trucks. "There are hundreds of families sleeping out in the cold here," he said. "We need electricity and shelter; meanwhile, the markets are flooded with chocolate and cigarettes."

Although aid workers say that Israeli inspection procedures have been expedited, it remains challenging to bring certain types of aid into Gaza. Some hospitals and desalination plants still face fuel shortages. Hamas has accused Israeli officials of hindering the delivery of medical supplies and reconstruction machinery.