Gaza city: The United Nations' top humanitarian official has issued a stark warning that the opportunity to avert a significant famine in Gaza is rapidly diminishing. With the crisis already affecting the northern regions, there are now just weeks left to prevent widespread starvation from reaching central and southern areas.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Tom Fletcher, the UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, emphasized the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis. He highlighted the critical timeline, stating, "There is a narrow window - until the end of September - to prevent famine from spreading to Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. That window is now closing fast."
Fletcher criticized Israel's recent displacement order in Gaza City, noting that it comes on the heels of confirmed famine in the north and amidst a continuing military offensive. He pointedly remarked on the severe humanitarian implications, saying, "Death, destruction, starvation and displacement of Palestinian civilians are the result of choices that defy international law and ignore the international community."
In a call for immediate action, Fletcher urged for the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, protection of civilians, and compliance with international legal measures. He demanded the release of hostages and arbitrarily detained Palestinians, and called for a ceasefire.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has confirmed famine conditions in northern Gaza, with projections indicating that areas such as Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis will be similarly affected by the end of September. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that since the famine declaration, 109 people, including 23 children, have succumbed to starvation.
The ongoing conflict, now in its 700th day, has resulted in the deaths of more than 64,000 Palestinians. In response to the situation, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to its actions in Gaza.