Title: Gaza Faces Deepening Hunger Crisis and Humanitarian Disaster as Aid Falls Short
According to a report by the United Nations and other agencies, Gaza is in the grip of a devastating hunger crisis. More than half a million people, a quarter of the population, are starving, highlighting the severe humanitarian catastrophe resulting from Israel’s bombardment and siege of the territory.
The report warns that the hunger crisis in Gaza is on par, if not worse, than the near-famines experienced in Afghanistan and Yemen. It further highlights that the risk of famine is increasing day by day and blames the insufficient aid entering Gaza as the root cause.
Although Israel claims to be in the final stages of eradicating Hamas militants from northern Gaza, experts predict that months of fighting still lie ahead in the south.
The ongoing war, sparked by Hamas’ deadly attack and hostage-taking on Israeli territory on October 7, has resulted in the deaths of nearly 20,000 Palestinians and has displaced more than 80% of Gaza’s population, with many seeking refuge in U.N. shelters.
The health sector in Gaza is collapsing rapidly, with only nine out of 36 health facilities currently operational, all of which are located in the south. Hospitals are witnessing unimaginable scenes with injured patients lacking supplies, and corpses lining the courtyards.
In response to the urgent need for assistance, the U.N. Security Council had planned to vote on a resolution calling for a halt in combat to facilitate increased aid deliveries. The United States now supports the resolution, but other council members are consulting with their capitals before voting, which is expected to take place on Friday.
Despite weeks of U.S. efforts to ensure greater aid reaches Palestinians, only 10% of Gaza’s food requirements have been met for several weeks. Israel recently allowed aid to enter through its Kerem Shalom crossing. However, an Israeli strike on Thursday morning halted aid pickups, exacerbating the crisis.
The report by the U.N. and other agencies has revealed that the entire population of Gaza is facing a food crisis, with more than half a million people at catastrophic or starvation levels. Their weak immune systems due to malnutrition make them susceptible to large disease outbreaks.
In the midst of this dire situation, Israel remains determined to continue its offensive until it dismantles Hamas’ military capabilities and secures the release of the numerous hostages captured by Palestinian militants.
While the United States continues to back Israel’s campaign, it is urging greater efforts to protect civilians. The U.S. government calls for a shift to more targeted operations against Hamas leaders and the group’s tunnel network.
The death toll since the war began has risen to over 19,600, stated the Health Ministry in Gaza. Israeli forces have raided and detained healthcare personnel, as well as inflicted damage on crucial medical facilities.
Amidst the mounting crisis, the people of Gaza find themselves in desperate situations, queuing up at soup kitchens for food, while hospitals struggle to provide the necessary care.
The situation in Gaza remains extremely bleak, with the hunger crisis worsening and the entire population suffering from lack of nourishment. Urgent actions are needed to alleviate the suffering and prevent further loss of lives.
