Two Infant Deaths in Gaza Amid Formula Shortage at Nasser Hospital, UN Warns as Israeli Blockade Continues

Hospitals in the Gaza Strip, particularly Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, are facing a critical shortage of infant formula amid an ongoing Israeli blockade that has closed border crossings and prevented the entry of essential supplies. This shortage has led to severe malnutrition among premature and newborn babies, placing hundreds at imminent risk of death. Reports confirm that two infants have already died from malnutrition linked to the lack of baby formula. Medical staff and international organizations, including the United Nations Population Fund, have warned of a mounting humanitarian crisis, describing the situation as a 'silent catastrophe.' Doctors in Gaza report that mothers are either too malnourished to breastfeed or have died, exacerbating the crisis.

Attempts by foreign doctors to smuggle infant formula into Gaza have been thwarted by Israeli authorities confiscating supplies. The World Food Programme has also highlighted widespread hunger affecting 500,000 people in Gaza, with families risking their lives for basic food items. The Guardian and other outlets have reported on the dire conditions, emphasizing that infant deaths are a concerning indicator of an impending famine in the region.