Residents of the Gaza Strip are experiencing severe food shortages, leading to malnutrition and health problems. A recent report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has confirmed the presence of famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas, citing that restrictions on aid have contributed to the humanitarian crisis. The UN states that over half a million people in the territory are facing dire conditions characterized by starvation.
Local residents have shared their struggles with food scarcity. Reem Tawfiq Khader, a mother of five, expressed concern for her children, noting that they haven’t consumed protein in five months. She mentioned that her youngest child is unaware of what fruits and vegetables look like. Similarly, Rajaa Talbeh reported losing significant weight and lamented the scarcity of gluten-free options due to her intolerances; she currently lives in a makeshift tent after fleeing her home.
The situation has also affected children, with accounts of severe malnutrition. Rida Hijeh highlighted the plight of her daughter, whose weight has drastically dropped since the onset of the war. Lamia, the child in question, suffers from various health issues attributed to her lack of nutrition. Reports from local health authorities indicate that malnutrition is affecting the delivery of babies, complicating the issues facing new mothers in the area.
With the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian situation remains precarious, reflecting a need for more comprehensive aid. While some aid is being facilitated by the Israeli military, many organizations urge for increased assistance through conventional routes. The death toll in Gaza has reportedly exceeded 62,000 since the escalation of military actions, with at least 271 deaths linked directly to famine and malnutrition since the conflict began.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz602wvjv7lo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss