The World Health Organization (WHO) director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced on Wednesday that Gaza is experiencing a man-made mass starvation crisis, driven by the ongoing Israeli blockade and restrictions on humanitarian aid.

“In my assessment, this is mass starvation, and it’s caused by human actions—primarily the blockade,” Tedros stated during a virtual press conference. This warning follows a plea from over 100 aid organizations highlighting the worsening hunger crisis, with essential supplies like food, water, and medical aid remaining blocked outside Gaza.

Since Israel imposed a full blockade in March, Gaza’s food reserves have depleted, exacerbated by limited aid flows even after partial easing in May. The enclave’s 2.2 million residents face severe shortages, with Israel citing security concerns and blaming Hamas for the suffering.

Surge in Hunger-Related Deaths:

Gaza health officials reported an additional 10 deaths from starvation overnight, bringing the total to 111 since the conflict’s onset—most occurring recently as hunger intensifies. The WHO estimates that at least 21 children have died from malnutrition this year, though the real figure is likely higher. Medical centers are overwhelmed, lacking emergency supplies.

Tedros emphasized the difficulty in aid delivery, noting that UN and humanitarian groups were unable to deliver food for nearly 80 days between March and May, and current aid flows are still insufficient.

Malnutrition Screening Data:

Recent screenings indicate that about 10% of Gaza’s population suffers from moderate or severe malnutrition, including up to 20% of pregnant women. In July alone, 5,100 children were admitted to malnutrition programs, with 800 severely emaciated, according to Rik Peeperkorn of the WHO.

Aid Operations Under Pressure:

The UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that ongoing security risks and logistical challenges are severely hampering relief efforts and access to supplies for the hungry population.