Israel announced, this Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the permanent reopening of the Kerem Shalom crossing, in the Gaza Strip, one month after the beginning of the ceasefire with Hamas. The decision responds to international criticism over restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian supplies, amid the crisis that affects 1.9 million Palestinians. UN agencies such as UNRWA warn that inspection procedures still limit the flow of essential items such as food and medicine.
The measure comes after pressure from countries such as the United States and Egypt, which mediated the peace agreement. The passage, closed since May 2024, is vital for supplying the territory.
- Food: Only 6,000 tons of food have entered Gaza since October.
- Medicines: 47% of medical supplies are out of stock, says UNRWA.
- Water: A third of distribution in Gaza depends on humanitarian agencies.
The UN estimates that 75,000 people are sheltered in 100 UNRWA facilities, with limited access to basic services.
Reopening under pressure
The reopening of the crossing was decided after meetings between Israeli authorities and international mediators. The Israeli government said the measure aims to facilitate the delivery of aid, but maintains strict controls to prevent smuggling.
Humanitarian organizations, however, report that detailed inspections cause train delays of up to 36 hours.
Humanitarian crisis persists
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with 90% of homes damaged or destroyed. Since the start of the conflict in October 2023, more than 68,000 Palestinians have died, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health.
UNRWA, the main aid agency, operates with 12,000 local staff, but without access for international teams since January 2025.
The ceasefire, which began on October 10, brought relief, but the resumption of attacks on October 28 killed more than 100 people.
UN charges more access
The UN has called for the opening of more crossings, such as Rafah, which remains closed. Tom Fletcher, the organisation’s humanitarian chief, highlighted the need for thousands of trucks of aid a week.
Reports indicate that only two of eight attempts to coordinate with Israel were successful last Sunday. UNRWA has also resumed medical services, treating 1,000 patients a day in Gaza.
Advancements and limitations
The reopening of Kerem Shalom is a step towards alleviating the crisis, but insufficient, according to the UN. The ageThe government intensified the distribution of water and vaccines, immunizing 44 thousand children against measles and other diseases.
The lack of fuel and violence from settlers in the territory make operations difficult. In southern Gaza, 1,500 children received psychosocial support last week.
Path to Stability
Maintaining the ceasefire is crucial to prevent further escalation of violence. The UN warns that, without unrestricted access, hunger and disease could worsen in winter.
The international community, including the IMF, sees the reopening as a chance for economic recovery, but demands the disarmament of Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.
