The food crisis in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, a Catholic humanitarian organization reported in late May. Nearly 2 million people, about 90 percent of the population, live in overcrowded and unsafe conditions. Ongoing conflict and military bombardments have damaged Gaza’s health and food systems, leading to severe hunger and a collapse of medical care.
Joseph Hazboun, regional director of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association’s Pontifical Mission for Palestine and Israel, described the worsening situation. There are severe shortages of food, clean water, medicine, and fuel. More than 90 community kitchens have closed, and many families survive on fewer than two meals a day.
Since October 2023, military attacks have displaced most of Gaza’s residents, creating dangerous living conditions. Vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and pregnant women face growing risks of malnutrition and disease. Hospitals are overwhelmed, with a shortage of medicine and healthcare workers. The al-Ahli Arab Hospital operates around the clock but struggles to meet demand.
Many displaced people have taken shelter in Gaza’s two main Christian churches. Holy Family Church shelters about 400 people, while St. Porphyrios Greek Orthodox Church houses around 150. Overcrowding has forced some families to return to damaged homes despite ongoing risks. The churches provide psychosocial support and some education to children to help them cope with trauma.
According to the United Nations, more than one million children in Gaza need immediate mental health support. About 85 percent of schools have been damaged or destroyed, interrupting education for thousands. Many students have missed important exams, affecting their future opportunities. Local partners have asked the Catholic mission to provide food, healthcare, and psychosocial programs for those affected.
The Catholic Pontifical Mission works with local churches and hospitals to distribute food and provide emergency medical services. The medical system faces a rising number of trauma and infection cases linked to the conflict and poor living conditions. The Vatican and religious leaders have called for peace and an immediate end to the violence. Since October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, thousands of lives have been lost on both sides.
