As Catholics around the world prepare for Advent, a stark humanitarian crisis continues to unfold in Gaza, where aid agencies warn that life-saving supplies remain blocked at a critical moment. Israeli officials announced preparations to open the Rafah crossing to allow residents to travel into Egypt for medical and other urgent needs, though “no specific time has been announced,” according to Vatican News.
Officials characterized the planned opening as a gesture meant to show progress on the ongoing cease-fire discussions. Yet humanitarian groups say the situation on the ground has deteriorated sharply as winter weather sets in.
According to Adnan Abu Hasna, media adviser to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, the agency possesses large quantities of food, medicine, tents, tarpaulins, blankets, clothing, and winter shelter materials, but “Israeli restrictions have prevented delivery.” He noted that UNRWA has “waited six months for clearance to bring in the supplies,” and that only a small portion has been permitted to enter.
Abu Hasna described tents currently in use as worn out and offering little protection from wind and rain. The lack of access to adequate shelter, he said, contributes to what he called a “critical humanitarian situation” impacting nearly 1.5 million Palestinians. He also warned that about 9,400 children are suffering from acute malnutrition, while the health system has collapsed and water sources remain contaminated. Recent winter rains and flooding have made basic survival even more difficult.
The United Nations recently characterized the war’s impact on Gaza as a “human-made abyss,” according to a report cited by Vatican News. The U.N. trade and development agency said military operations have “significantly undermined every pillar of survival,” leaving 2.3 million people facing “extreme, multidimensional impoverishment.” The same report noted that Gaza’s economy shrank 87% between 2023 and 2024, driving GDP per capita down to $161 — among the lowest levels globally — and estimated that rebuilding could cost more than $70 billion over the coming decades.
For Catholics reflecting on justice, mercy, and the dignity of every human person, these accounts offer a sobering reminder of the suffering endured by civilians caught in conflict. As the Church prepares to celebrate the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace, the faithful are invited to pray for humanitarian access, for the protection of vulnerable families, and for peace rooted in human dignity and reconciliation.
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