Residents in Gaza have shared their experiences of severe hunger, following a UN-backed report confirming famine in parts of the area. Reem Tawfiq Khader from Gaza City expressed that acknowledging the famine was overdue but essential. She mentioned that her family hadn’t consumed protein for five months, and her youngest child is unfamiliar with fruits and vegetables. The UN accuses Israel of restricting aid to Gaza, which Israel denies. Israel also disputes claims of starvation, contradicting over 100 humanitarian groups, witnesses, and UN bodies. The IPC warned that over half a million people in Gaza face “catastrophic” conditions, including “starvation, destitution and death.”
Rajaa Talbeh, who fled her home, lost 25kg and lives in a tent at the beach. Unable to find suitable food due to gluten intolerance, she struggles without the usual charity support for gluten-free products. Rida Hijeh reported her daughter Lamia’s weight dropped drastically due to the famine, causing health issues. Lamia suffers from malnutrition, but no medical help has been provided. Nurse Mandy Blackman from UK-Med in Gaza reported 70% of mothers at their clinics are malnourished, affecting newborns.
Over 62,000 have died in Gaza since Israel’s military campaign began in response to a Hamas-led attack. According to Gaza’s health ministry, this includes 271 deaths from “famine and malnutrition”. Aseel, living in Gaza City, also reported significant weight loss. Her sister-in-law is struggling to afford baby formula. Many like her live day by day without food reserves.
Additional reporting by Freya Scott-Turner and Caroline Hawley.