Gaza City Faces Acute Malnutrition Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict

Palestinian emergency services look for survivors after an Israeli strike on a residential building in Rafah, Monday, Feb. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Hatem Ali)

Israel has issued fresh evacuation orders for parts of Gaza City as a recent study conducted by the U.N. children's agency revealed alarming levels of malnutrition among children in the war-torn region. The report highlighted that one in six children in the devastated northern areas of Gaza are suffering from acute malnourishment.

The ongoing conflict, triggered by Hamas' attack on October 7, has resulted in the deaths of over 29,000 Palestinians, the destruction of entire neighborhoods, and the displacement of more than 80% of the population. The Israeli military has announced plans to expand its offensive to Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, where a significant portion of the population has sought refuge.

U.N. report reveals alarming malnutrition levels among children in northern Gaza.

Israel issues evacuation orders in Gaza City due to malnutrition crisis.

Over 29,000 Palestinians killed, neighborhoods destroyed, and 80% displaced in conflict.

Israeli military plans to expand offensive to Rafah in southern Gaza.

Cease-fire negotiations involve the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar with no breakthrough yet.

Gaza faces severe food shortages, lack of clean water, and infectious diseases.

Global Nutrition Cluster report highlights food insecurity and water access issues in Gaza.

Rafah has 5% acute malnutrition rates, while northern areas have 15%.

Humanitarian aid delivery in Gaza hindered by road closures and logistical challenges.

Conflict results in high civilian death toll, with criticism of Israel's actions.

Efforts to negotiate a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages are underway, with the involvement of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar. However, no breakthrough is expected at this stage.

The dire situation in Gaza is further exacerbated by severe food shortages, lack of clean water, and widespread infectious diseases. The Global Nutrition Cluster report revealed that over 90% of children under 5 in Gaza consume two or fewer food groups daily, while more than 80% of households lack access to safe water.

In Rafah, acute malnutrition rates stand at 5%, compared to 15% in the isolated northern areas. The report warned of a potential surge in preventable child deaths if immediate action is not taken to address the crisis.

Despite Israel's claims of not restricting humanitarian aid, delivery within Gaza has been severely impeded by road closures, ongoing hostilities, and logistical challenges. The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees has faced obstacles in providing essential assistance, with a recent food shipment being held up by Israeli authorities.

The conflict, which began with Hamas-led militants breaching Israel's borders, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The Health Ministry in Gaza reported a death toll of 29,195 Palestinians, with a majority being civilians, including women and children. Israel has stated that it has targeted over 10,000 Palestinian militants but has faced criticism for the high civilian death toll.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with no immediate end in sight to the months-long war that has left the region in a state of humanitarian crisis.

For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP News.