The horrible tactic of using starvation as an unfailing weapon

Israel’s decision to stop allowing goods and supplies into Gaza after 42 days has sparked global outrage. Starvation, often used as a weapon of war, is becoming a critical issue in Gaza as scientific studies reveal alarming health consequences. A recent study highlights significant weight loss in the northern Gaza Strip, with more than 98% of participants reporting weight loss, averaging 18 kg due to severe hunger. Many people are resorting to unsafe food sources, such as animal feed, leading to poisoning, disease, and long-term health damage.

Israel had previously allowed over 40,000 trucks to deliver more than half a million tons of food to Gaza, providing over 3,000 calories per person. Despite this, the humanitarian situation remains dire. By January 2024, 1.1 million people in Gaza were suffering from “catastrophic food insecurity” (IPC Phase 5), the final stage before famine. This crisis has been exacerbated by the longstanding blockade, which has hindered resources and imports for over 18 years.

The conflict has also devastated Gaza’s infrastructure. Food stores have been bombed, farmers killed, and those trying to provide food for the population have been targeted. One particularly tragic event was the “Flower Massacre,” where survivors risked their lives in the hopes of saving their children from starvation.

International condemnation is growing, with several nations and human rights organizations accusing Israel of violating international law by using starvation as a weapon of war. The question now is whether the global community will take action to hold those responsible accountable for these atrocities.

News source- Al Jazeera