World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned of a sharp rise in deaths from malnutrition in Gaza, saying that treatment centres for acute malnutrition are overcrowded and humanitarian aid has virtually ceased.
## Gaza Famine Crisis
According to the WHO, 2.1 million people in the Gaza Strip are facing hunger amid the fighting. The head of the organization emphasized that since July 17, centers for the treatment of acute malnutrition have been operating with a shortage of emergency food supplies.
### Malnutrition statistics
- WHO has recorded 21 deaths from malnutrition in children under five years of age.
- Rates of acute malnutrition exceed 10% of the population.
- More than 20% pregnant and lactating women in Gaza suffer from malnutrition, particularly severe forms.
## Causes of the crisis
The hunger crisis in Gaza is worsening amid the cessation of humanitarian aid and ongoing restrictions on access. According to Ghebreyesus, 95% households in Gaza are facing water shortages.
### Problems with access to water and food
- Daily access to water is well below the minimum required for drinking, cooking and hygiene.
- Food supplies to the Gaza Strip have been virtually cut off for 80 days due to a complete blockade of humanitarian and commercial access.
## Conclusion
The sharp rise in malnutrition deaths in Gaza highlights the need for urgent international intervention. WHO and humanitarian partners must have unimpeded access to the population to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
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