Gaza Crisis Deepens: Hamas Demands Aid Access, Hostage Release as Starvation Reaches Critical Levels
Geneva/Gaza – August 4, 2025 – The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is escalating rapidly, with one million women and girls now facing starvation, according to the United Nations.This dire situation coincides with renewed demands from Hamas for the unimpeded delivery of food and medicine to all areas of the Gaza Strip, and a cessation of Israeli military operations during aid distribution and hostage release negotiations.
Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida stated on Sunday that “corridors must be opened in a normal and permanent manner for the passage of food and medicine to all our people in all areas of the Gaza Strip.” He also insisted that “Israeli attacks of all forms must cease during the receipt of packages for the prisoners.” These demands are linked to ongoing efforts to secure the release of approximately 50 Israeli captives still held in gaza, fewer than half of whom are believed to be alive.
The international Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed deep concern over the condition of the hostages, describing recent videos depicting their captivity as “harrowing” and “stark evidence of the life-threatening conditions” in wich they are being held. The ICRC reiterated its call for access to the hostages, emphasizing that securing such access requires the cooperation of all parties involved.Notably, the ICRC has been unable to visit Palestinian detainees held in Israeli facilities since October 7, 2023.
The ICRC also condemned the killing of a Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) staff member in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, on Sunday. The attack occurred within a “clearly marked Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) building,” tho the ICRC statement did not attribute obligation. The PRCS has stated Israeli forces were responsible for the attack.
Ongoing Obstacles to Aid Delivery & Mounting Death Toll
The worsening humanitarian situation is compounded by severe restrictions on aid entering Gaza. on Saturday, only 36 aid trucks were permitted to enter the territory, while an estimated 22,000 trucks remain outside Gaza awaiting permission to deliver essential supplies.
The Government Media Office in gaza reports that at least 175 people, including 93 children, have died from starvation. Recent victims include 17-year-old ATEF Abu Kaher,who succumbed to starvation on Saturday after his weight plummeted to 25kg (55lbs).
Families of Hostages Express Desperation
Families of the Israeli captives have voiced increasing alarm over Prime Minister Netanyahu’s insistence on a “military resolution” to the conflict, arguing it directly endangers the lives of their loved ones. In a statement released Sunday, the families accused the government of perpetuating “the illusion that military pressure will bring back the hostages,” and expressed despair that a comprehensive agreement is now considered “futile.”
The situation remains volatile, with the UN and international organizations urgently calling for an immediate ceasefire and the unrestricted delivery of lifesaving aid to Gaza. The escalating crisis underscores the urgent need for a resolution that prioritizes both the release of hostages and the protection of the civilian population facing catastrophic levels of hunger and suffering.
