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Gaza Facing Widespread Starvation as Death Toll Mounts
The Gaza Strip is experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis marked by escalating hunger,restricted access to essential resources,and a rising death toll. Israel’s ongoing military operations and stringent blockade are severely limiting the entry of humanitarian aid, including food, water, medicine, and hygiene products.
Since October 7, 2023, at least 197 palestinians in Gaza have died from starvation, including 96 children, according to reports from local and international organizations. The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor reported on March 18,2024,that the number of starvation deaths is likely significantly higher due to limited access for documentation and reporting. These organizations and numerous international observers accuse Israel of employing “hunger and thirst as a weapon of war,” a violation of international law.The blockade, initially imposed in 2007 following Hamas’s takeover of Gaza, has been dramatically tightened as the start of the current conflict.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) estimates that over 576,600 people in Gaza – roughly 25% of the population – are facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity (Phase 5 on the IPC scale) as of February 2024. this means households are facing a complete loss of access to food and are experiencing starvation, death, and irreversible deterioration of nutritional status. The World Food Program (WFP) has warned that the entire population of Gaza is facing acute food insecurity.
The situation is especially dire in northern Gaza, where access to aid is most restricted.Reports indicate that residents are resorting to consuming animal feed and scavenging for scraps of food.Hospitals, already overwhelmed by casualties from the conflict, are also struggling to provide adequate nutrition to patients.
Efforts to deliver aid have been hampered by logistical challenges, Israeli restrictions on access, and the breakdown of law and order within Gaza. The Rafah crossing, the primary entry point for aid from Egypt, has faced intermittent closures and delays. The opening of the Erez crossing on March 20, 2024, and a new route for aid deliveries through the port of Ashdod are recent developments aimed at increasing the flow of assistance, but aid organizations say these measures are insufficient to meet the overwhelming needs.
Beyond the immediate crisis, the long-term consequences of widespread malnutrition are expected to be severe, particularly for children’s physical and cognitive development. The destruction of agricultural land and infrastructure further threatens food security in the future. The Gaza Strip, with a population of over 2.1 million, is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, and the vast majority of its residents are reliant on humanitarian assistance.
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netanyahu Orders expanded Attacks on Gaza, Despite Security Concerns
Gaza City – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly authorized a significant expansion of military operations in the Gaza Strip, a move that comes despite reported disagreements within Israel’s security establishment. The decision, revealed by sources speaking to Milliyet, signals a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict and raises concerns about the humanitarian situation in the densely populated territory.
According to reports, Netanyahu met with key ministers to discuss the plan, which aims to achieve unspecified “war targets.” discussions reportedly included references to a potential “ground operation” within Gaza. The expansion of attacks was reportedly decided upon despite concerns regarding the potential for Israeli prisoners to be held in areas targeted by the military.Thorough Attack Plan Underway
The Israeli military is preparing a “gradual” and comprehensive attack plan, with reports indicating that “sensitive regions,” including Palestinian refugee camps, are being considered as potential targets. The army’s preparations suggest a willingness to accept increased risk in pursuit of its objectives. the comprehensive attack plan is expected to be reviewed by the Israeli cabinet this week.
This escalation comes as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens. The region has been under sustained attack for 22 months, leading to widespread devastation and displacement.
International Response & Ongoing Concerns
The move is likely to draw international condemnation, particularly given the potential for civilian casualties.[[(Optional: Add a sentence here referencing recent international calls for de-escalation or a specific statement from a key international figure – this boosts relevance)]. The situation remains