Amid almost seven months of war in Gaza, the World Food Programme has issued a dire warning of a 'full-blown famine' rapidly spreading across the strip. Negotiators are meeting in Cairo to seek a ceasefire in the conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives in the Palestinian territory.
The executive director of the World Food Programme described the situation as 'horror,' emphasizing the urgent need for aid delivery and unfettered access to Gaza. The WFP's assessment, though not an official declaration of famine, is based on ground observations by staff.
Israel's military strikes have intensified pressure to allow aid into Gaza, with human rights agencies warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis. More than 34,600 Palestinians have lost their lives in the conflict, and over 1.9 million have been forcibly displaced, facing dire conditions in overcrowded tent camps.
Tragically, at least 30 children have already succumbed to malnutrition and dehydration in Gaza, underscoring the urgent need for intervention. Concerns are mounting over a potential Israeli military operation in southern Gaza, prompting calls for a ceasefire to avert further catastrophe.
US officials are monitoring the situation closely, noting the inadequate preparations for sheltering civilians in the event of an incursion by the Israel Defense Forces. While discussions for a temporary ceasefire and hostage release are ongoing, a final agreement between Israel and Hamas is expected to take several more days to negotiate in Cairo.
