A group of independent United Nations experts has officially declared that famine exists throughout Gaza, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region after more than nine months of conflict. The experts, including the Special Rapporteur on the right to food and the Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territory, have labeled the situation in Gaza as a consequence of an “intentional and targeted starvation campaign” by Israel.
This severe declaration comes as the latest assessment in a series of escalating warnings about the dire food security situation in Gaza. The experts reported that entire communities are experiencing extreme food shortages, acute malnutrition among children, and a doubling of mortality rates, all indicators that meet the United Nations’ criteria for famine.
The situation in Gaza has reached a critical point where basic survival is under immediate threat, with reports indicating that many residents are resorting to drastic measures such as consuming animal feed and untreated water. This has led to an increase in deaths due to malnutrition and dehydration, particularly among children, confirming the experts’ famine declaration.
The international community has been urged to increase humanitarian aid and facilitate access to all necessary resources to alleviate the suffering in Gaza. The experts also called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to allow for the unimpeded delivery of aid and recovery efforts within the region.
This declaration of famine in Gaza highlights the urgent need for a coordinated global response to address the humanitarian disaster, ensuring that aid reaches those in need without delay to prevent further loss of life.