The Gaza Strip is facing a devastating humanitarian crisis as deaths from malnutrition have risen sharply amid a tightening blockade and worsening conditions. Fatalities linked to hunger have increased more than thirtyfold since 2023, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Recent figures show that malnutrition-related deaths have soared from just four in 2023 to 50 in 2024, with 143 recorded so far this year. Among those who have died are 96 children and 101 adults, underscoring the widespread impact on the population.

Health authorities warn that the crisis is escalating rapidly. Approximately 12,000 children under five were diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition in July alone, placing them at high risk of death or permanent health damage.

The collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system is worsening the emergency. Restrictions on the entry of food, medicine, and medical supplies have left hospitals critically under-resourced and unable to cope with the surge in cases.

Calls have been made for the immediate reopening of border crossings to allow unimpeded humanitarian aid. Currently, only a fraction of the aid trucks needed enter Gaza daily, while reports have emerged of convoys being looted and hindered.

This dire situation unfolds as the conflict enters its 23rd month, marked by relentless bombardment, civilian casualties, and repeated attacks near aid distribution points. The blockade, coupled with the war’s devastation, has pushed Gaza to the brink of famine.

Since March, the closure of all border crossings has forced the population to rely on dwindling food reserves, leading to widespread hunger and shortages of essential items including milk, meat, vegetables, medicines, and hygiene products.

Without urgent international intervention to restore aid flow, the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is set to deepen further.