malnourished children

UN official rings alarm over Rafah attack, saying it could result in ‘slaughter’

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UN official rings alarm over Rafah attack, saying it could result in ‘slaughter’

An Israeli incursion in Rafah would endanger the lives of hundreds of thousands of Gazans and severely impact humanitarian operations in the enclave. Israel has warned of an operation against Hamas in Rafah, where displaced people are living in shelters. The U.N. humanitarian office expressed concerns about a potential civilian slaughter and disruption of aid operations, including medical clinics and food distribution. The World Health Organization has prepared a contingency plan, but it may not prevent a significant increase in casualties. Additionally, there are worries that an incursion could close the Rafah crossing, hindering the import of medical supplies.

In Gaza, starving children fill hospital wards as famine looms

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In Gaza, starving children fill hospital wards as famine looms

Six-year-old Fadi al-Zant from Gaza is acutely malnourished, unable to walk, and suffers from cystic fibrosis. His health has deteriorated since the conflict began, as his medication is no longer available and his diet has been severely restricted. The Kamal Adwan hospital, where Fadi is being treated, has seen most of the 27 children who have died from malnutrition and dehydration recently. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) warns that famine is imminent in northern Gaza, affecting over two-thirds of the people there. Despite Israel’s claims of not limiting aid, shortages of food, medicines, and clean water persist. Fadi’s condition worsened about two months ago, with his weight dropping from 30kg to 12kg. The U.N. children’s agency UNICEF reports nearly 1 in 3 children under two in northern Gaza suffer from acute malnutrition. Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of obstructing the provision of basic services and lifesaving aid, which Israel denies. Conditions in Gaza have been exacerbated by disease, with a significant increase in diarrhoea cases among children under 5, further hastening malnutrition.