This online event examines key aspects of the situation in Gaza. UNRWA’s director for Gaza, Sam Rose, discusses the catastrophic humanitarian state of affairs. Laurens Dassen (Volt) offers a reflection on Dutch politics and policies, while Abdou Bouzerda (VPRO Bureau Buitenland) reflects on the consequences of limited media access and coverage. Clingendael’s Erwin van Veen moderates the panel discussion and highlights perspectives for action based on international law.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic. In a context of decades of Israeli occupation, confirmed by the International Court of Justice (2024), Israeli forces have killed large numbers of civilians, displaced many and weaponised hunger following Hamas’ bloody 7 October 2023 attack. By April–May 2025, around 500,000 Gazans face famine, according to the International Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). Israeli politicians have openly spoken of cleansing Gaza for resettlement. Israel has also targeted UNRWA, a key aid and services provider and record of Palestinian displacement. Israel has effectively banned UNRWA from operating while ‘its own’ Gaza Humanitarian Foundation falls dramatically short of requirements. How can neutral and adequate aid and services be restored to Palestinians in Gaza?
