Fact Check: Palestinian citizens in the State of Palestine are ordinary people, even when they are starving.

Fact-Check: "Palestinian citizens in the State of Palestine are ordinary people, even when they are starving."

What We Know

The claim that Palestinian citizens in the State of Palestine are ordinary people, even when they are starving, is supported by a variety of reports detailing the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. According to a U.N.-backed report, a "worst-case scenario of famine" is currently unfolding in Gaza, with alarming rates of food insecurity and malnutrition affecting the civilian population. The report indicates that "famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption in most areas of the Gaza Strip," and that acute malnutrition is particularly severe in Gaza City.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has also highlighted the dire situation, stating that nearly half a million people in Gaza are facing catastrophic hunger, acute malnutrition, and starvation. The report emphasizes that the entire population of over 2 million is experiencing severe food shortages, with three-quarters of the population classified as facing "Emergency" or "Catastrophic" food deprivation.

Furthermore, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has reported that one in three Palestinians in Gaza are going days without food, and that the situation is exacerbated by ongoing military conflict and a blockade that restricts humanitarian aid.

Analysis

The evidence presented from multiple reputable sources, including U.N. agencies and the WHO, underscores the reality of widespread starvation and malnutrition among the Palestinian population in Gaza. The reports are consistent in their findings, indicating that the humanitarian crisis is severe and that many civilians are suffering from the effects of starvation.

The credibility of these sources is bolstered by their established roles in global health and humanitarian efforts. The U.N. and WHO are recognized authorities in assessing and responding to public health emergencies, and their reports are typically based on comprehensive data collection and analysis.

However, it is important to consider potential biases. The U.N. and humanitarian organizations often face criticism from various political entities regarding their assessments and actions in conflict zones. For instance, Israeli officials have disputed claims of starvation in Gaza, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating, "there is no starvation in Gaza" (NPR). This highlights a divergence in narratives, where political perspectives can influence the interpretation of humanitarian conditions.

Despite these differing viewpoints, the overwhelming consensus among humanitarian organizations is that the situation in Gaza is critical, with many civilians facing dire circumstances. The reports indicate that the suffering of the population is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a reflection of the ordinary lives of people caught in a conflict.

Conclusion

The claim that Palestinian citizens in the State of Palestine are ordinary people, even when they are starving, is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the civilian population in Gaza is experiencing extreme food shortages and malnutrition, which are exacerbated by ongoing conflict and restrictions on humanitarian aid. The reports illustrate the humanity of the individuals affected by this crisis, emphasizing that they are ordinary people enduring extraordinary hardship.

Fact Check: Palestinian citizens in the State of Palestine are ordinary people, even when they are starving.