• Over 64% of medical equipment and 43% of essential medicines are at 'stock zero' in Gaza.
• The WHO has 51 aid trucks waiting at the Gaza border without clearance to enter.
• Israel slightly eased a blockade but millions still lack necessary medical supplies.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 64% of medical equipment and 43% of essential medicines in Gaza are currently at 'stock zero'. Hanan Balkhy, the WHO's Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, reported that 42% of vaccines are also unavailable, a situation deemed critical for healthcare in the region, particularly as humanitarian aid remains significantly restricted. These dire circumstances follow more than eleven weeks of blockade amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas, which has resulted in severe shortages of essential medical supplies, including painkillers and antibiotics, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

Balkhy expressed deep concern during a press conference, highlighting the lack of medical aid deliveries, stating, "Can you imagine a surgeon (fixing) a broken bone with no anaesthesia?" As humanitarian conditions worsen, the WHO has 51 aid trucks stationed at the Gaza border awaiting clearance. Despite Israel allowing 100 aid trucks to enter recently, none were from the WHO, which is critical for addressing ongoing medical emergencies, as noted by India Times, Reuters, and Channel News Asia.

The WHO has declined to participate in a U.S.-backed aid distribution plan proposed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, citing concerns over impartiality and risk to civilians. The foundation's plan aims to deliver aid while preventing diversion to Hamas militants, increasing the complication of already strained humanitarian efforts. With the ongoing warfare since October 2023 following a significant attack by Hamas, the WHO remains hopeful for future aid deliveries, although the timeline remains uncertain, as reported by India Times, Reuters, and Channel News Asia.