Fact Check: "Experts and human-rights workers say hunger is widespread in Gaza and that Palestinians are at risk of famine if Israel does not fully lift its blockade."
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with widespread hunger affecting a significant portion of the population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the ongoing blockade has led to a situation where nearly half a million people are experiencing catastrophic levels of hunger and malnutrition. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has classified three-quarters of Gaza's population as facing "Emergency" or "Catastrophic" food deprivation, which are the two most severe levels on its scale of food insecurity.
Experts have warned that if the blockade continues, the risk of famine will increase significantly. A report by the Associated Press highlights that food security experts have stated that Gaza is at a "critical risk of famine" if the blockade is not lifted, noting that the population relies heavily on external aid for survival due to the destruction of local food production capabilities (PBS). The IPC's latest analysis suggests that without immediate access to food and essential supplies, the situation will worsen, leading to more deaths and a descent into famine.
Analysis
The claims regarding hunger and the risk of famine in Gaza are supported by multiple credible sources. The WHO, a reputable international health organization, has explicitly stated that people in Gaza are "starving, sick, and dying" due to the blockade, which has severely restricted access to food and medical supplies (WHO). Furthermore, the IPC's assessments provide a systematic evaluation of food security in the region, reinforcing the assertion that a significant portion of the population is facing acute malnutrition and starvation.
The Associated Press report corroborates these findings, emphasizing the critical nature of the food crisis and the urgent need for humanitarian access (PBS). Additionally, the assertion that starvation is being used as a method of warfare has been documented by organizations like Human Rights Watch, which describes the Israeli government's actions as a war crime (HRW).
While some may argue that a formal declaration of famine has not yet been made, experts contend that the absence of such a declaration does not negate the reality of starvation currently affecting many individuals in Gaza. Chris Newton from the International Crisis Group has pointed out that the lack of a famine declaration should not be a prerequisite for addressing the humanitarian crisis (PBS).
Overall, the evidence from these sources indicates a consistent narrative of widespread hunger and a looming risk of famine in Gaza, driven by the ongoing blockade and military actions.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that experts and human-rights workers say hunger is widespread in Gaza and that Palestinians are at risk of famine if Israel does not fully lift its blockade is accurate. Multiple credible reports from reputable organizations confirm the severity of the humanitarian crisis, highlighting acute malnutrition and starvation among a significant portion of the population. The situation is exacerbated by the blockade, which restricts essential supplies and humanitarian aid.
