The United Nations has warned that Gaza is experiencing full-blown starvation, with 37 children dying from acute malnutrition since July, according to Gaza's authorities. The UN humanitarian office OCHA reported that 98 children have died from malnutrition since the conflict began in October 2023.
OCHA's coordination director Ramesh Rajasingham stated: 'This is no longer a looming hunger crisis – this is starvation, pure and simple.' The warning comes as the overall death toll in Gaza approaches 100, with at least 61,430 Palestinians killed and 153,213 injured since 7 October 2023, according to the Gaza health ministry.
Meanwhile, the United States defended Israel at a UN Security Council meeting, asserting Israel's right to decide what is best for its security and dismissing allegations of genocide as false. The US holds veto power at the council, which can block proposed actions.
In London, Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis criticised the UK's decision to recognise Palestine during a march calling for the release of Israeli hostages. Ayelet Svatitzky, whose brothers were murdered by Hamas, said recognising Palestine before all hostages are returned would be a 'prize' for the militant group.
Gaza's Government Media Office stated that only 14% of the aid needed by the population entered the Strip over the last fortnight. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani warned that the invasion of Gaza risks becoming a 'Vietnam' for Israeli soldiers, while senior Israeli officers cautioned that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to occupy Gaza City could lead to further international isolation.
Netanyahu has called for a 'civilian administration' in Gaza after Hamas is defeated and said he is discussing 'additional aid measures' with the US. Protests have erupted globally, including in Greece, where demonstrators expressed anger over their government's close ties with Israel.
