WHO says Gaza facing man-made ‘mass starvation’ as hunger deaths surge

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that Gaza is experiencing man-made mass starvation, primarily due to the Israeli blockade and severe restrictions on aid delivery. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the humanitarian crisis is clearly caused by the blockade, echoing concerns from over 100 aid agencies.

Despite a partial easing of restrictions in May, aid reaching Gaza’s 2.2 million people remains grossly insufficient. Israel argues the blockade is necessary to prevent aid diversion to Hamas, but the WHO and UN report surging hunger-related deaths and widespread malnutrition.

So far, at least 111 people, including 21 children, have died from starvation, with many more likely unreported. In July alone, over 5,000 children have been treated for malnutrition, including 800 in critical condition. Nearly 10% of the population suffers from moderate or severe malnutrition, including up to 20% of pregnant women.

Relief efforts are under severe strain due to unsafe conditions, delayed or blocked supplies, and fuel shortages. The UN’s humanitarian office (OCHA) warned that key health facilities, including Al Shifa Hospital, are on the verge of shutdown. It urged Israel to immediately open all crossings, allow the free flow of critical supplies and fuel, and ensure the safety of aid workers.

Credit: CGTN