Humanitarian Agencies Report Critical Threats as Fuel Supplies Dwindle in Gaza

Humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza have warned that an escalating fuel shortage is creating life‑threatening conditions for civilians and jeopardising essential aid operations across the enclave. Aid groups say the lack of fuel is undermining hospitals, water systems, and relief distribution at a time when the population is already facing severe hardship.

The United Nations and partner agencies report that fuel stocks have reached critically low levels, threatening to halt medical services, ambulance operations, and the production of clean water and bread. According to a joint UN statement, fuel is “the backbone of survival in Gaza,” powering hospitals, sanitation networks, and the transport of humanitarian supplies. Even a small delivery of fuel allowed into Gaza recently—described as the first in more than four months—was far below the daily requirements needed to sustain basic services.

UN officials have also raised concerns about restrictions on aid access, noting that some attempts to deliver fuel to northern Gaza were denied by Israeli authorities. They warn that such limitations further endanger civilians who rely on functioning medical facilities, water treatment systems, and emergency response services.

The fuel crisis comes amid prolonged conflict and widespread food insecurity, with humanitarian agencies cautioning that the collapse of essential infrastructure could deepen an already severe humanitarian emergency. Without sufficient and consistent fuel supplies, they say, hospitals may continue to lose power, communications networks could fail, and waste management systems may shut down—conditions that increase the risk of disease outbreaks and further civilian suffering.

Aid groups emphasise that restoring reliable fuel access is critical to maintaining life‑saving operations and preventing a broader humanitarian collapse. The situation remains fluid, with agencies urging all parties to facilitate the safe and sustained entry of fuel needed to support Gaza’s 2.1 million residents.