WHO confirms rising malnutrition deaths in Gaza amid conflict

In July 2025, Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed there is no starvation in Gaza, although data and witnesses present a starkly different situation. The World Health Organization reported that there have been 63 malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza this month, with a significant number of these being children under the age of five. This has raised alarms among health officials and international organizations, which suggest that the humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly. Despite Netanyahu's assertion, evidence emerges indicating rising rates of malnutrition and related health issues in the enclave. The WHO noted that acute malnutrition in northern Gaza has tripled recently, affecting nearly one in five children under five. Furthermore, the tale of hardship is compounded by the statistics of deaths due to underlying health problems aggravated by starvation, which has been highlighted by Gaza's ministry of health. In fact, the mortality rates among children are climbing, alarming health professionals and invoking a response from international communities. The conditions on the ground are dire, with the United Nations pointing out that aid activities are severely hindered by blockade measures imposed by Israel. Although humanitarian pauses and airdrops have been announced to allow aid into Gaza, many view these efforts as inadequate. Deliveries of aid are often hampered, and the scope of need vastly outstrips the supplies provided. Reports indicate that recent food airdrops were insufficient and left chaotic scenes on the ground, undermining the dignity of the Palestinian people. International agencies continue to push for increased access to aid, emphasizing that aid must be transported effectively by truck rather than through risky airdrops. Despite numerous declarations from Israeli officials claiming that they facilitate humanitarian assistance, organizations like the U.N. have documented challenges including significant denied requests for aid transport. Public sentiment grows critical, especially as images of malnourished children circulate, providing a heart-wrenching contrast to the official rhetoric.