**Gaza on Brink of Famine as Malnutrition Deaths Rise**
The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the Hamas-run health ministry announcing that seven more people have died from malnutrition over the past 24 hours. This brings the total number of malnutrition-related deaths since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in 2023 to 154, including 89 children.
Experts warn that the worst-case scenario of famine is “currently playing out” in Gaza. The UN-backed global food security experts have expressed grave concerns about the shortage of aid entering the territory. Despite claims by Israel that it is not imposing restrictions on aid deliveries, its close allies in Europe and other agencies active in Gaza dispute this.
**Aid Shortages Worsen Crisis**
The situation on the ground is dire, with sources telling the BBC that only 109 lorries carrying aid entered Gaza on Tuesday. Almost none of them reached their destination, being looted by desperate crowds after they crossed the border. The UN estimates that at least 600 aid trucks are needed every day to start addressing the crisis in Gaza.
The blockade imposed by Israel has exacerbated the shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. Global experts have warned of a looming famine, but the Israeli military campaign continues, with reports of daily incidents near humanitarian aid sites resulting in casualties.
**Six Palestinians Killed Near Aid Distribution Centre**
A separate incident occurred on Wednesday morning when six Palestinians were killed near a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid distribution centre in the Rafah area. The GHF denied any involvement in the killings, while the Israel Defense Force (IDF) claimed that a “gathering of suspects” it said posed a threat to its troops were told to move away, and subsequently fired warning shots.
The IDF disputed the death tolls reported by Palestinian sources, which included 60 people who died seeking aid. The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) reported six bodies received at two hospitals after an incident involving people waiting for humanitarian aid in the Zikim area.
**US Envoy to Discuss Crisis**
In a separate development, US special envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Israel on Thursday to discuss the crisis. This marks Witkoff’s first visit to Israel in nearly three months, coming just days after both the US and Israel recalled their delegations from Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with widespread shortages of aid and fuel exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The international community must come together to address this crisis and prevent further suffering in the region.
**Commentary**
The situation in Gaza is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and blockade on civilians. As experts warn of famine, it is imperative that all parties involved take immediate action to address the shortages of aid and fuel entering the territory.
The recall of US and Israeli delegations from ceasefire talks in Qatar raises concerns about the commitment to finding a peaceful solution to this crisis. The international community must put pressure on both sides to negotiate a ceasefire and allow aid to reach those who need it most.
**Analysis**
This crisis highlights the deepening humanitarian needs in Gaza, where millions of people face dire conditions due to ongoing conflict and blockade. As we continue to witness reports of malnutrition deaths, shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, and deadly incidents near aid distribution centres, it is clear that something must be done.
The international community’s response has been inadequate so far, with many agencies struggling to reach the areas most in need due to security restrictions and lack of resources. The US envoy’s visit may signal a change in this dynamic, but much more needs to be done to prevent further suffering.
Ultimately, it is imperative that all parties involved take concrete steps towards finding a peaceful solution to this crisis. This includes reviving the prospect of a two-state solution, as proposed by British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and putting an end to deadly conflicts over aid distribution centres.
As we continue to follow this developing story, one thing is clear: the people of Gaza deserve our attention and action now.
