The humanitarian situation for Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank continues to worsen in 2026, as ongoing violence, restrictions on aid, and political tensions intensify across the region.
In Gaza, millions of residents remain heavily dependent on humanitarian assistance after years of war and destruction. Aid groups warn that the closure of key border crossings has limited the delivery of food, medical supplies, and fuel, leaving many families struggling to survive. The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt – one of the territory’s main gateways for humanitarian aid – has periodically closed, restricting evacuations for critically ill patients and delaying essential supplies.
Even after temporary ceasefires, violence has continued in parts of Gaza, with periodic airstrikes and military operations reported. At the same time, tensions have risen in the occupied West Bank. Israeli military raids and attacks by settlers have led to new casualties and growing fears among Palestinian communities. In early March 2026, several Palestinians were killed in attacks by Israeli settlers in villages near Ramallah and Hebron, according to Palestinian authorities.
Aid organisations have also raised concerns about restrictions placed on humanitarian groups. Israeli authorities proposed banning dozens of international NGOs from operating in Gaza and the West Bank, a move critics say could further limit assistance to civilians already facing severe hardship.
Meanwhile, United Nations officials have warned that intensified violence, destruction of neighbourhoods, and forced displacement could permanently change the demographic landscape of Palestinian territories. UN experts say these developments raise concerns about possible “permanent displacement” of Palestinians from their homes.
