The humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza has reached a new level of urgency as health officials report that at least 66 children have died from malnutrition since Israel began tightening its siege on the territory. The blockade, which severely restricts the entry of food, medicine, and fuel, has led to widespread starvation and the collapse of health services.
Rising Toll Amid Blockade
According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, the majority of the children who have died were under five years old. Hospitals, already overwhelmed by the influx of wounded from ongoing airstrikes, now face shortages of basic nutritional supplements and infant formula. Medical teams warn that many more children are at imminent risk unless aid corridors are immediately opened.
International Reactions
Human rights groups and United Nations agencies have condemned the blockade, describing it as collective punishment. UNICEF issued a statement declaring that “children are paying the highest price” and called for the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid. Several international NGOs have warned that Gaza is on the brink of famine.
Israel's Position
Israeli authorities maintain that restrictions are necessary to prevent weapons smuggling and weaken Hamas, the militant group that governs Gaza. However, critics argue that the measures disproportionately harm civilians, especially children, who have no part in the conflict.
Calls for Action
Aid organizations are appealing to the international community to pressure Israel to ease the blockade and allow food and medical supplies to reach the civilian population. “Every hour counts,” said a spokesperson for Doctors Without Borders. “Without immediate assistance, the death toll will continue to rise.”
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
Even before this escalation, Gaza's health system was in crisis after years of blockade and repeated military operations. Now, doctors are describing scenes of desperation, with families forced to feed children boiled weeds and animal fodder to keep them alive.
The situation remains fluid, with ceasefire negotiations reported but no clear end in sight. Meanwhile, aid workers warn that Gaza's youngest residents are at risk of being wiped out by hunger.