Hunger in Gaza could have lasting consequences for an entire generation

(Patria) - Malnutrition rates are on the rise in the Gaza Strip, where hunger could have a lasting impact on an entire generation, the representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) for the occupied Palestinian territory stated yesterday.

Israel has been blocking supplies to Gaza since the beginning of March, continuing its devastating military campaign against Hamas, and a new report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) warned on Monday that half a million people in the area are facing starvation.

Rik Peeperkorn of the WHO says he has seen children in clinics who appeared years younger than their age. He also added that he visited a hospital in northern Gaza where 11 percent of the children examined suffered from acute malnutrition.

- What we are seeing is a growing trend of global acute malnutrition. I saw a child who is five years old, and you would say they are two and a half.

Without enough nutritious food, clean water, and access to healthcare, an entire generation will be permanently affected - Peeperkorn told a press conference via video link from Deir al-Balah.

He warned of their stunted growth and impaired cognitive development.

Israel has repeatedly blamed Hamas for causing starvation by stealing aid intended for civilians. Hamas denies this accusation.

- Due to the blockade, the WHO has enough supplies to treat only 500 children with acute malnutrition, which is only a fraction of what is needed.

As many as 55 children have already died from acute malnutrition - Peeperkorn said, citing data from the Gaza Ministry of Health.

The WHO official also added that he saw many children in hospitals with diseases such as gastroenteritis and pneumonia, which, due to reduced immunity associated with hunger, can be fatal.

- You don't usually die of starvation. You die from diseases associated with it - Peeperkorn concluded.