Gaza Cannot Afford a Return to War: Ceasefire Must Hold, Aid Must Flow

March 13, 2025

Mercy Corps is deeply alarmed by the suspension of aid and now electricity flowing into Gaza, and the growing risk of renewed war that would push people further into humanitarian crisis. After nearly 18 months of conflict, starvation, and disease, the six-week pause in hostilities brought some relief—families were reunited, some began to rebuild, and critical aid finally reached some struggling to survive. But now, that fragile hope is fracturing with the suspension of critical supplies entering into Gaza, as well as cut off electricity to one of Gaza’s last remaining water treatment facilities.  

We continue to follow the progress on hostage releases and urge for their immediate and safe return home. Ongoing negotiations should not hinder the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in desperate need across the Gaza Strip. 

Kate Phillips-Barrasso, Mercy Corps Vice President of Global Policy and Advocacy, says: 

"After months of relentless suffering and fleeting relief during the six-week pause in fighting, Gaza cannot afford a return to war. The stakes could not be higher for civilians who have already endured unimaginable hardship. 

"If the ceasefire collapses, North and South Gaza could be completely severed, trapping hundreds of thousands without aid or medical care. Over 600,000 people—including our staff— have returned to Gaza City in recent weeks, hoping to rebuild their lives. Instead, they now face the risk of another siege with families entirely cut off from assistance. Those forced to flee once again would lose what little shelter and supplies they have left, while Gaza’s shattered water and sanitation systems deteriorate further, pushing communities toward deadly disease outbreaks. 

“Gaza still lacks essential supplies and what is currently available will quickly deplete. Israel’s decision to suspend all aid and goods from entering Gaza is already depriving families of food and medicine. Over the last week the costs of essential goods in the market, including produce, flour, and oil, has more than doubled. As stocks continue to dwindle, prices are expected to increase. Now, the severing of electricity to one of Gaza’s only functioning water treatment plants supplying water to Deir el Balah, Khan Younis, Rafah and surrounding areas, will further increase the risk of waterborne illnesses for 600,000 people in central and South Gaza. 

“During the six weeks of the ceasefire improved access stabilized supply and prices and enabled Mercy Corps to provide critical food and hygiene kits to over 32,000 people in Deir al Balah and Gaza City. This week, we had planned to reach another 40,000, but those supplies are now stalled at the border. If the suspension persists, we will be unable to reach the additional 160,000 people we planned to support with lifesaving assistance in the coming weeks. 

“Aid must not be used as a political bargaining chip. We urge all parties to come to an agreement to release all remaining hostages and reach a lasting ceasefire with provisions to ensure that civilians have consistent access to critical supplies, and that humanitarian organizations have safe passage to deliver aid. Millions of lives are at stake.”

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