Gaza Situation a “Humanitarian Catastrophe” as Conflict Deepens

Independent TD and former Army Ranger Cathal Berry has condemned the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing the conditions as catastrophic and warning that the region has become a "pressure cooker" with no way in or out for civilians.

Speaking on Morning Mix Cathal Berry said the Israeli Defence Forces have launched a renewed ground assault on Gaza City, with no end in sight to the ongoing conflict. “It’s hard to believe that in just a fortnight’s time, this conflict will have been raging for two full years”  According to Berry, tens of thousands have now been displaced, with civilians unable to flee due to tight Israeli and Egyptian border controls. Unlike other conflict zones, such as Ukraine, where civilians could move into neighbouring countries, Gazans are trapped, with all borders closed and aid convoys unable to enter. “The humanitarian situation is worsening by the day, famine conditions are spreading and families are being forced to spend their entire life savings just to survive. There is no escape valve for the people of Gaza.” Berry described the crisis as a “second Holocaust”Recognition Despite the bleak conditions on the ground, Berry believes that a shift in international diplomacy is a glimmer of hope. Countries including the UK, Australia, Canada and Portugal have recently moved to recognise Palestinian statehood, following in the footsteps of Ireland, Spain and Norway who made similar declarations in 2024. Ireland had taken early criticism for its stance, but is now being joined by nations that previously held more hard-line positions. However, he warned that the United States continues to veto UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire and unrestricted aid access, limiting progress at the diplomatic level. Berry also raised concerns about the situation in the West Bank, warning of potential land annexation by what he described as "the most ultra right-wing government in Israel’s history." Such a move, he said, would seriously undermine any prospects for a two-state solution.