UN Accuses Israel of Weaponizing Aid in Gaza, Causing Acute Malnutrition in 66,000 Children

The United Nations has accused Israel of weaponizing humanitarian aid in Gaza, exacerbating a dire situation where civilians are left desperate for food and water amidst ongoing bombings. The blockade, now in its third month, has led to severe malnutrition, with at least 57 Palestinians, mostly children, reported dead due to starvation by Gaza's Media Office. The UN reports that 66,000 children suffer from acute malnutrition due to the blockade.

The crisis has intensified, with 290,000 children in Gaza on the brink of starvation, and 3,500 facing imminent death. The blockade has also resulted in a surge in famine-level malnutrition among infants, with hospitals struggling to provide necessary care due to the lack of medical supplies and food. Hospital occupancy has risen to about 88% due to the famine, weakened immunity, and related diseases.

International criticism has mounted, with the UN and European officials condemning Israel's use of aid as a weapon. The UNRWA has reported that hunger and despair are spreading in Gaza due to the weaponization of food and aid. The Palestinian Prime Minister has declared Gaza a 'famine zone' and urged the international community to act swiftly to alleviate the crisis. The British Minister for the Middle East has strongly opposed the expansion of Israeli operations and any attempt to annex territory in Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages. Hamas has appealed to the international community to break its silence and take urgent steps to stop the massacres and open crossings for medicine and food.