Why Is Gaza Facing a Humanitarian Crisis?

UMMA volunteers serving food in Gaza

The Ongoing Crisis in Gaza

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is one of the most severe in the world. Decades of conflict, economic blockade, and limited access to basic services have left millions in despair. The situation has escalated in recent years, making daily life unbearable for most residents.

In 2024, the poverty rate in Gaza reached 74.3%, and unemployment stood at 45%, with youth being the most affected. These staggering figures reflect the harsh reality of living under siege.

At UMMA Foundation, we’re committed to addressing urgent needs by delivering food, medical supplies, and dignity to those suffering in Gaza. But the world needs to know: Why is Gaza in crisis?

Conflict and Blockade: The Roots of the Crisis

Military Occupation and Recurrent Violence

For years, Gaza has been at the center of armed conflicts that have destroyed homes, schools, and hospitals. With each escalation, civilians bear the brunt—especially children.

Economic Blockade

The ongoing blockade on Gaza restricts movement of people and goods. It severely limits access to fuel, construction materials, food, and medicine. As a result, the economy in Gaza has collapsed, creating widespread poverty and dependency on aid.

Political Fragmentation

Internal political divisions and external isolation have made governance ineffective. Local authorities struggle to meet even the most basic needs of the population.

Poverty in Gaza: Causes and Consequences

Lack of Access to Resources

The blockade has choked the economy, leaving families unable to afford food, water, or medicine. Over 63% of Gaza’s population is food insecure.

Housing and Infrastructure Breakdown

Electricity is available for just a few hours each day. Many families live in damaged or temporary shelters, with limited access to clean water or sewage systems.

A Generation at Risk

With few job opportunities and crumbling schools, Gaza's youth are trapped in a cycle of poverty, trauma, and hopelessness. Many children suffer from malnutrition and psychological stress.

Impact of Blockades on Gaza's Economy

Collapsed Private Sector

Manufacturing and agriculture have nearly disappeared. Farmers can’t export crops, and factories often shut down due to power outages or lack of supplies.

Aid Dependency

80% of the population relies on humanitarian aid to survive. While aid is essential, long-term solutions require lifting the blockade and rebuilding Gaza’s economy.

Education and Health Sectors in Ruin

With frequent power cuts and bombed facilities, schools and hospitals operate at minimal capacity. Doctors lack supplies, and students learn in overcrowded classrooms or tents.

Unemployment and Youth in Gaza

A Lost Generation

The unemployment rate in Gaza is among the highest in the world, and nearly 70% of youth are jobless. Graduates with degrees have no jobs to apply for. The future feels blocked.

Psychological Impact

Years of violence, economic stress, and lack of mobility have created a mental health crisis. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are widespread among young Gazans.

How You Can Help Gaza Today

Donate to Humanitarian Relief

UMMA Foundation delivers food, medical aid, and clean water directly to families in Gaza. Every donation goes toward life-saving support for the most vulnerable.

Raise Awareness

Share articles, stats, and videos to spread the truth about life in Gaza. The more people who understand, the more pressure there is for change.

Support Long-Term Solutions

In addition to emergency aid, UMMA Foundation invests in:

  • Local agriculture and fishing support

  • Educational kits for children

  • Mobile health clinics

Partner with us: ummafoundation.org/contact

Conclusion: Gaza Needs Us Now

The Gaza humanitarian crisis is not a temporary emergency—it is a prolonged human tragedy. But it is not hopeless.

With the right support, we can help families survive today and rebuild for tomorrow. UMMA Foundation is on the ground delivering dignity, one meal and one smile at a time.

Join us. Donate to Gaza. Share the truth. Be part of the solution.

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