The United Nations officially declared hunger in Gaza after Israel’s months of restrictions blocked food and water supplies to more than 2 million people.
The United Nations announced hunger in Gaza, the capital of the UN Humane Society (OCHA) during a briefing in Geneva on Friday.
“Hunger (IPC Phase 5) is currently occurring in Governor Gaza (north), and is projected to expand to Governor Deial Bala and Khan Yunis (south) by the end of September,” the UN report said.
“Meltilization threatens the lives of 132,000 children, less than five, including 41,000 severe cases, double the number in May,” he added.
It comes after months of restrictions to assist with delivery imposed by Israel. Hundreds of people have died of hunger, especially in Gaza city.
Israel faces repeated accusations of using food as a weapon. Several Israeli politicians have openly argued that limiting the entry of consumables is a legitimate strategy.
Integrated Food Security Stage Classification (IPC), a global hunger monitor involving UN agencies, NGOs and governments, reported last month that Hungry is rolling out in Gaza.
“Hungerness is a race against time. An immediate ceasefire and the end of the conflict are important to enable a massive humanitarian response that is unstoppable to save lives,” the UN report warned.