U.S. Representative Steve Witkoff, under Trump's administration, ventures to Israel in the midst of controversy surrounding the Gaza humanitarian predicament
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, leading to mass destruction, widespread displacement, and starvation-level food insecurity.
Over the past two years, the conflict, sparked by Hamas' terror attacks on Israel in October 2023, has claimed the lives of over 59,000 Palestinians and injured more than 143,000, according to reports. This fighting has resulted in the displacement of approximately 1.9 million Palestinians—about 90% of Gaza’s population—many of whom are facing catastrophic food insecurity and famine-like conditions.
Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, with many damaged or non-functioning, lacking power and clean water, exacerbating the health crisis. The United Nations Food Security and Agriculture analysis warns that by September 2025, about half a million people in Gaza could face IPC Phase 5 "catastrophe," marked by starvation, destitution, and death. Children are particularly vulnerable, with acute malnutrition increasing and hunger-related deaths rising daily.
International organizations are urging all parties to uphold international humanitarian law, protect civilians and infrastructure, and scale up aid delivery. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has highlighted the "epic proportions" of the humanitarian catastrophe and the urgent need for international action.
However, challenges remain significant. Israel’s blockade and restrictions on "dual-use" items hinder crucial supplies like water purification materials. Violence against humanitarian workers and the destruction of medical sites also impede aid operations.
Recent developments include: - The United Nations and its partners have been able to bring more food into Gaza in the first two days of pauses, but the volume is still "far from enough." - Qatar and Egypt, mediating the ceasefire efforts, support a declaration by France and Saudi Arabia for a two-state solution. - U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to arrive in Israel on Thursday to salvage Gaza ceasefire talks. - Canada is the latest Western power to say it will recognize a Palestinian state. - Hamas has rejected calls to disarm.
Residents in Gaza face danger from Israeli forces and Palestinian looters when trying to reach aid supplies. The Gaza health ministry has recorded 154 deaths from starvation and malnutrition, most of them in recent weeks.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, international demands for a ceasefire and protection of humanitarian access remain central to efforts to salvage the situation and prevent further mass suffering and death.
The escalating crisis in Gaza, driven by ongoing war-and-conflicts, is exacerbating general-news issues such as the health of its population. Hospitals struggle with lack of power, clean water, and damage, creating a critical health crisis. The United Nations predicts that by September 2025, about half a million people in Gaza could face starvation and death due to catastrophic food insecurity and famine-like conditions.
