Fact Check: Israel is starving Gaza children

Fact Check: "Israel is starving Gaza children"

What We Know

The claim that "Israel is starving Gaza children" is supported by multiple reports detailing the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by an ongoing blockade that restricts the flow of essential supplies. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the entire population of Gaza, approximately 2.1 million people, is facing prolonged food shortages, with nearly half a million in a catastrophic state of hunger and malnutrition. The IPC (Integrated Food Security Phase Classification) reports that three-quarters of Gaza's population is experiencing "Emergency" or "Catastrophic" food deprivation, the two worst levels of food insecurity.

Since the blockade began on March 2, 2025, at least 66 children have died from malnutrition, and the situation is expected to worsen, with projections indicating that nearly 71,000 children under five could be acutely malnourished in the coming months. The WHO has emphasized that immediate access to food and essential supplies is crucial to prevent further deterioration of the situation, stating, "We do not need to wait for a declaration of famine in Gaza to know that people are already starving, sick and dying" (WHO, 2025).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from credible sources, including the WHO and UNICEF, which have documented the rising rates of malnutrition among children in Gaza. The WHO's statements highlight the urgent need for humanitarian access to alleviate the suffering of the population, particularly children who are most vulnerable to the effects of malnutrition and disease (WHO).

Reports from UNICEF indicate a dramatic increase in the number of malnourished children, with over 5,119 children admitted for treatment in May 2025 alone, marking a nearly 50% increase from the previous month (UNICEF). This alarming trend underscores the severity of the crisis and the impact of the blockade on children's health.

Additionally, the Gaza Government Media Office has condemned the blockade as a "war crime," asserting that it constitutes a deliberate use of starvation as a weapon against civilians. This perspective is echoed by various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, which has documented evidence of starvation being used as a tactic in the conflict (Amnesty International).

While some sources may exhibit bias due to their political affiliations or perspectives, the consistency of reports from multiple reputable organizations lends credibility to the claim that children in Gaza are suffering from starvation as a result of the blockade.

Conclusion

The claim that "Israel is starving Gaza children" is True. The evidence presented by reputable organizations such as the WHO and UNICEF, along with corroborating reports from various news outlets, indicates that the blockade has led to severe food shortages and malnutrition among children in Gaza. The situation is dire, with many children facing life-threatening conditions due to a lack of essential supplies, including food and medical care.