The Gaza Ministry of Health reported today (Friday) that the death toll from the Israeli assault on the region since October 7th has risen to 20,057, according to the Arab World News Agency.
It further stated that 390 individuals lost their lives, and 734 were injured in the past 48 hours during a period marked by communication disruptions.
Meanwhile, the United Nations’ Deputy Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, expressed concern over a recent international report warning of the risk of famine in Gaza.
He stated that while the report is alarming, it is not surprising.
Griffiths remarked via an online platform, “Every day that passes in Gaza with this deprivation and destruction will lead to more hunger, illness, and despair for the region’s residents.”
He added, “The war on Gaza must come to an end.”
In a recent report, the World Food Programme revealed that over one in four families in Gaza is suffering from severe hunger.
The threat of famine looms over the territory unless access to food, clean water, and adequate healthcare services is restored.
Cindy McCain, the Executive Director of the World Food Programme, warned, “The World Food Programme has been cautioning against this catastrophe for weeks. It is tragic that without the secure access we have been advocating for, the situation is worsening, and there is no one in Gaza safe from famine.”
According to a new food security ranking cited by the World Food Programme, there is a looming risk of famine in Gaza in the next six months if the current state of violent conflict and restrictions on humanitarian aid access persists.
Prior assessments by the Food Security Analysis Service, which is part of the World Food Programme, have shown that Gaza’s population has depleted all its resources.
Livelihoods have collapsed, bakeries have been destroyed, and stores are empty, leaving families struggling to find food.
Residents of Gaza have reported to World Food Programme staff that they often go days without a meal, with many adults going hungry to ensure their children get food.
