GAZA FACES MAN-MADE MASS STARVATION

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, warning that the territory is now facing “man-made mass starvation.”
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made the remarks during a press briefing, accusing Israeli authorities of blocking critical humanitarian aid and causing widespread hunger among civilians.
“A large proportion of the population of Gaza is starving. I don’t know what else to call it other than mass starvation — and it’s man-made,” Dr. Tedros said.
He pointed out that from early March to mid-May, no food or aid was allowed into Gaza, and since then, only limited supplies have reached the region — far below what is needed to sustain the population of over 2.1 million.
Children Among the Worst Affected
At least 21 children under five years old have reportedly died of hunger-related complications this year, though WHO believes the true number is likely much higher. More than 5,000 children were admitted to treatment centers for malnutrition in July alone, with over 800 in life-threatening condition.
Dr. Tedros said the crisis is being compounded by the near-collapse of Gaza’s health system, with most hospitals either damaged or lacking basic medical supplies.
“Hospitals are overcrowded and under-resourced. Mothers are arriving with severely malnourished children, but there is no room or food left to treat them,” he said.
Calls for Immediate Action
The WHO joined over 100 humanitarian organizations, including Save the Children, Oxfam, and Médecins Sans Frontières, in calling for an immediate ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access to the besieged territory.
“This is a deliberate crisis. Starving civilians as a method of warfare is illegal under international law and must end,” Tedros added.
The WHO further warned that unless immediate steps are taken, Gaza could witness a sharp rise in preventable deaths due to hunger and disease.
Aid Still Blocked
Despite international pressure, aid convoys continue to face delays and rejections at Gaza’s border points. Meanwhile, residents are surviving on minimal rations, unsafe drinking water, and inadequate medical care.