Hospitals in Gaza have reported that nine more people have died from starvation and malnutrition in just 24 hours. This brings the total number of starvation deaths since the beginning of Israel’s war on Gaza to 122, including 83 children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
UNICEF and other aid agencies warn that Gaza will run out of life-saving therapeutic food for children by mid-August. Malnourished children are overwhelming hospitals, and the healthcare system is close to collapse.
The Israeli military, which has enforced a near-total blockade on Gaza since March, says it is not stopping aid but claims that international organizations like the UN are delaying the collection of supplies. Hundreds of aid trucks are reportedly stuck at the Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing between Egypt and Gaza, waiting for distribution.
However, Israel and the United States have been trying to **remove the UN and other humanitarian agencies** from the aid process and instead use the **Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF)**, a new body. Sadly, **around 1,000 Palestinians have been killed** at or near GHF distribution points while trying to get food.
An Al Jazeera journalist gave a painful account of daily survival under the blockade. Basic food items are nearly gone, and people are surviving on **falafel and unsafe water. Prices are extreme—onions cost \$10, and flour is \$17.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said that 25% of children and pregnant or breastfeeding women in Gaza are malnourished.
Australia’s Prime Minister called the situation a “humanitarian catastrophe” and urged immediate action.
A UK-based charity warned of a sharp rise in waterborne diseases due to lack of clean water and medical care.
Iran accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war, pointing out that only Israel and the U.S. had voted against a 2021 UN resolution that declared access to food a basic human right.
The UN human rights chief also criticized the UK for banning Palestine Action, calling the move a threat to free speech and peaceful protest.
Israel said it killed a Hamas intelligence chief in an air strike in northern Gaza.
Four Palestinians were killed in a school strike in Gaza City.
A 14-year-old Palestinian died after being shot by Israeli forces in the West Bank.
Meanwhile, France announced it will **recognize Palestinian statehood** in September. The Palestinian Authority and Arab nations welcomed the move as a **step toward peace and justice**. They are urging other countries to do the same.
Gaza is facing a deadly famine, worsened by an ongoing Israeli blockade and limited access to aid. Despite international concern, children continue to die of hunger. As political tensions rise, humanitarian agencies warn that time is running out for the people of Gaza.
