"Currently, every single person in Gaza is hungry, a quarter of the population is starving, struggling to find food and drinkable water, and famine is imminent," warned the experts. Pregnant women lack adequate nutrition and healthcare, posing significant risks to their lives. Children under five, numbering 335,000, face high risks of severe malnutrition, endangering an entire generation with stunting-related physical and cognitive impairments.

The crisis has been exacerbated by Israel's imposition of a "total siege" since October 9, cutting off 2.3 million Palestinians from water, food, fuel, medicine, and medical supplies. This is set against the backdrop of a 17-year blockade, which left half of Gaza's population food insecure and over 80% dependent on humanitarian aid prior to the current conflict.

Aid distribution has faced challenges, with only 21% of planned deliveries reaching northern Gaza since January 1. The experts express particular concern about conditions in this region, where the population grapples with prolonged food shortages and restricted access to essential resources.

Israel's destruction of farmland and sea access further compounds the crisis. Approximately 22% of agricultural land in northern Gaza has been razed, and 70% of the fishing fleet destroyed. The lack of humanitarian aid, combined with the destruction of infrastructure, leaves people without adequate food, water, and fuel.

The healthcare system has collapsed due to widespread destruction of hospitals, escalating the spread of communicable diseases. Over 60% of Palestinian homes have been destroyed, rendering the territory uninhabitable. The UN estimates that nearly 85% of Gaza's population, totaling 1.9 million people, is internally displaced.

The UN experts assert that Israel's actions go beyond indiscriminate bombardments, accusing the country of intentionally imposing disease, malnutrition, dehydration, and starvation by destroying civilian infrastructure. They urgently call for aid delivery to Gaza without hindrance to prevent starvation.

The experts emphasize that the risk of genocide is not limited to the ongoing bombardment but is rooted in Israel's long-standing occupation, blockade, and current destruction. They advocate for an immediate ceasefire and the cessation of the israeli occupation as the clear path to peace, safety, and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians. (ILKHA)