UN World Food Program warns of impending famine in North Gaza – JURIST

The dire situation in the northern region of the Gaza Strip has been confirmed by the Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme (WFP), Cindy McCain, who warned of a “full-blown famine” taking hold. This marks the first time a UN official has acknowledged the severity of the crisis in Gaza.

McCain emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid, including essential supplies like food, sanitation, and medicine. She highlighted the long-term consequences of famine on the health and development of children in the region.

Despite efforts to increase the delivery of aid through border crossings with Israel, McCain stressed that more support is required to address the growing humanitarian crisis. The safety of aid workers on the ground is also a major concern, with over 200 UN workers reportedly killed in Gaza.

In response to McCain’s warnings, COGAT, the Israeli agency overseeing humanitarian aid distribution, disputed the severity of the situation, claiming that the humanitarian conditions in Gaza are improving. However, international organizations have raised alarms about the insufficient aid reaching the population in need.

The International Court of Justice has intervened, ordering Israel to facilitate the entry of humanitarian assistance to prevent a potential genocide of Palestinians. The ICJ’s latest ruling acknowledges the onset of famine in Gaza, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

As the crisis escalates, calls for action from the international community continue to grow. UN officials and humanitarian organizations are urging Israel to lift restrictions on aid convoys to prevent further suffering and loss of life in Gaza.