The Gaza Strip faces a potential hunger crisis if Israel does not lift its blockade and military operations, food security experts warn. Currently, nearly 500,000 Palestinians are at “devastating” levels of hunger, while over a million struggle to meet basic food needs. Israel’s military campaign and blockade have severely limited food supplies, with communal kitchens being the primary source of food for many, though they are running out of stock.
Despite the dire situation, no formal declaration of famine has been made. Analysts argue that the ongoing starvation is a tactic in Israel’s efforts to combat Hamas. Israel insists that aid will not resume until a new distribution system is established, blaming Hamas for misusing supplies. Meanwhile, the UN has resisted the proposed changes, highlighting that the current humanitarian needs of Palestinians are not being met.
A recent report indicates that over 477,000 people are classified as experiencing “catastrophic” hunger. The report outlines three criteria for declaring famine, which Gaza has met, setting the stage for significant humanitarian crises ahead. Conditions, including destruction of farmlands and lack of water access due to fuel shortages, exacerbate the situation, with warnings of widespread hunger and malnutrition expected to escalate.
Aid organizations call for immediate humanitarian access to alleviate the artificial starvation affecting the population.
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