WHO Chief Urges Israel to End Starvation Crisis in Gaza

WHO Chief Urges Israel to End Starvation Crisis in Gaza
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World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Friday called on Israel to halt the “catastrophe” of starvation in Gaza, where at least 373 people, including 134 children, have died from malnutrition since the conflict began in October 2023, Arab News reported.

“This is a catastrophe that Israel could have prevented, and could stop at any time,” Tedros said, condemning the use of starvation as a method of war as a war crime that risks setting a dangerous precedent.

His remarks followed a UN declaration of famine in Gaza, attributing it to “systematic obstruction” of humanitarian aid by Israel. Tedros highlighted that food capable of saving lives remains stuck on trucks near Gaza, while civilians continue to starve.

“The starvation of the people of Gaza will not make Israel safer, nor will it facilitate the release of hostages,” he stressed.

Tedros also warned that hunger is leading to increased disease, with more than 100 recent cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome reported, a condition that can cause paralysis. Over 15,000 patients urgently need specialized medical care and evacuation, but more than 700, including nearly 140 children, have died waiting.

He urged Israel to end the “inhumane war” and called on its allies to use their influence to stop the crisis.