In a statement late Saturday, Lazzarini described the situation as “dire,” stating, “Famine is likely to occur in northern Gaza.” He accused the Israeli military of deliberately restricting food supplies as a “weapon,” leaving Palestinians with limited access to essential resources necessary for survival.

Lazzarini highlighted that current humanitarian aid reaching Gaza—averaging just over 30 trucks daily—amounts to only 6% of the daily food requirements for the population, a fraction of what is needed. “This is far from enough to meet the basic needs of the people in Gaza,” he said, urging immediate and substantial increases in both humanitarian and commercial supplies to prevent a further escalation of the crisis.

A report from the Famine Review Committee, part of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), echoed Lazzarini's concerns. The committee’s senior experts warned that famine is “imminent” in Gaza, stressing the need for immediate action within days, not weeks, to prevent catastrophic consequences.

The ongoing Israeli blockade, which began in full on October 27, 2023, has already caused a severe shortage of food, clean water, medical supplies, and fuel across Gaza, leading to numerous deaths due to malnutrition and lack of medical care, particularly among children and the elderly. The UNRWA chief emphasized, “The time has not yet passed” to avert further suffering.

The crisis is no longer limited to northern Gaza, with central and southern areas now experiencing acute shortages of essentials like flour, forcing families to resort to expired goods and unsafe alternatives. Amid the deepening crisis, calls for an immediate ceasefire and scaled-up international aid have grown, with the UN and global aid agencies urging the international community to act decisively to prevent further deterioration of conditions in Gaza. (ILKHA)