Despite the tragic loss of seven staff members in an Israeli military strike in April, the World Central Kitchen (WCK) has resumed its meal service in Gaza, providing a glimmer of hope to the displaced and desperate population.
On Wednesday, WCK staffers served hot meals to dozens of Palestinian children in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, outside a sprawling displacement shelter. The children eagerly lined up for a plate of stew and rice, a rare treat in a region where food is scarce.
Um Hassan, a Palestinian mother, expressed her gratitude, saying her toddler was thrilled to receive a hot meal, having survived on canned food for weeks. Another child, Zaki Sobeh, hadn't had a hot meal in over a month and thanked the WCK team for their kindness.
WCK founder Jose Andres acknowledged the difficulty in returning to Gaza after the loss of his staff but emphasized the organization's commitment to helping those in need. "We cannot stand by while so many people are so desperate for the essentials of life," he wrote on social media.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached catastrophic proportions, with over 34,600 Palestinians killed, 1.9 million displaced, and the entire population of 2.2 million at risk of famine. At least 30 children have died from malnutrition and dehydration.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned of Israel's strict limitations on aid into Gaza, which is diminishing critical supplies and hindering relief efforts. The United Nations' human rights chief, Volker Türk, has warned that Israel's sustained restrictions on aid may amount to the war crime of starvation.
Despite Israeli claims of "no limit" on aid, the inspection regime on aid trucks has severely restricted the amount of food and supplies entering Gaza. The opening of the Erez border crossing into northern Gaza has been hailed as "essential" by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, but efforts to increase aid have been met with repeated obstacles, including attacks on aid convoys and interceptions by Hamas.
The World Central Kitchen's return to Gaza is a beacon of hope in a desperate situation. Their food and kindness bring a sense of comfort and normalcy to those who have lost everything. As Ashraf Al Sultan, a local WCK staffer, said, "Their food makes people feel that they are at home. It is decent food, it is clean. They also treat people well."
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