A UN official has raised concerns about the increased risk of malnutrition in the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing conflict that started on October 7. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that severe food shortages, the breakdown of healthcare services, and inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities are posing a threat to children under the age of 5, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Speaking to reporters, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric highlighted the severity of the situation. He stated, Four months since the escalation of hostilities, OCHA is warning that in Gaza, severe food shortages, a breakdown in health services, and inadequate facilities for water, sanitation and hygiene are putting children under the age of 5, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, at increased risk of malnutrition. Dujarric also highlighted the efforts made by UN humanitarian partners to address the crisis. Last week, supplementary nutrition assistance was distributed to nearly 42,000 children under 5, as well as almost 4,000 pregnant and lactating women.
A recent screening conducted by humanitarian partners revealed a significant spike in acute malnutrition cases. Dujarric reported, A new screening by our humanitarian partners indicates a sharp rise in acute malnutrition, with a 12-fold increase compared to the rate recorded before the hostilities.
The conflict between Israel and Gaza has resulted in tragic consequences. Since October 7, Israeli forces have launched a deadly offensive, killing at least 27,708 Palestinians and injuring 67,174 others. Conversely, it is believed that nearly 1,200 Israelis have been killed in attacks by Hamas.
The Israeli offensive has also had a devastating impact on Gaza’s population and infrastructure. Approximately 85% of Gaza’s population has been internally displaced. The dire situation is further exacerbated by acute shortages of food, clean water, and medicine. Additionally, 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed.
According to the UN, urgent action is required to address these pressing issues in Gaza. The international community must come together to provide humanitarian aid, support the repair and rebuilding of infrastructure, and ensure access to essential services such as healthcare, clean water, and sanitation.
The plight of the people in Gaza must be highlighted to global audiences. The ongoing conflict and its severe consequences demand immediate attention and assistance from the international community. Addressing the increased risk of malnutrition is a crucial step towards alleviating the suffering of vulnerable individuals, particularly children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.
It is essential to rally support for humanitarian efforts and shine a spotlight on the urgent need for peace and stability in the region. The situation in Gaza serves as a reminder that lasting solutions and a peaceful resolution to the conflict are imperative to safeguard the well-being and future of the population.
