Starvation in Gaza: The Human Body Under Siege

Gaza is facing one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history. According to Al Jazeera, as of August 2025, the Health Ministry in Gaza reported that 313 people have died due to famine and malnutrition, including 119 children. Every day, the ongoing blockade and conflict make it increasingly difficult for residents to access enough food and clean water, pushing the population toward mass starvation.

"An elderly man in Gaza struggles to survive amid hunger and devastation."

Understanding Starvation and Its Effects

Starvation is not just about feeling hungry. It is a complex and slow process that gradually destroys the human body. Dr. James Smith, an emergency doctor who has volunteered in Gaza, describes starvation as "one of the most undignified and barbaric ways to kill." Initially, the body begins breaking down its own fat and muscle for energy. As the condition continues, metabolism slows, kidney function deteriorates, and the immune system weakens. Eventually, vital organs like the heart and lungs fail, leading to death. The process is not sudden; it involves prolonged suffering, extreme weakness, and vulnerability to infections.

Malnutrition also worsens existing medical conditions. Children, the elderly, and sick individuals are the most vulnerable. For children, lack of nutrition can permanently damage physical and mental development. For adults, prolonged starvation can result in irreversible organ damage.

Who Is Most Affected?

Certain groups in Gaza are especially at risk:

Children and the elderly: Their bodies are less resilient, making them more likely to die quickly from lack of food.

The sick and injured: Malnutrition weakens their ability to recover from illness or injury.

Orphans and isolated individuals: Without family or community support, they struggle even more to survive.

Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah, a Palestinian-British surgeon, emphasizes that both age and social circumstances increase the risk of death from starvation.

Blockades and Limited Aid

Since 2007, Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza, controlling the flow of food, fuel, and humanitarian aid. Documents from past legal proceedings show that food supplies have been deliberately limited at times, reducing access to basic nutrition. This has had long-term effects on the health of the population. Even when humanitarian aid enters Gaza, it is often insufficient to meet the enormous demand. Many families risk their lives to reach food distribution points, which may be overcrowded, targeted, or blocked.

The blockade has made life extremely difficult. Hospitals struggle to treat patients because of shortages of essential medical supplies. Schools often cannot provide meals for children, and daily life becomes a constant battle to survive.

The International Response

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported alarming levels of child malnutrition. In July 2025 alone, over 12,000 children under five were suffering from severe malnutrition, one of the highest numbers ever recorded. The United Nations has attempted to deliver aid, but only a small fraction of those in need—about 8,700 children out of nearly 290,000—have received assistance. Humanitarian organizations warn that without immediate action, these numbers will continue to rise.

A Call for Humanitarian Action

The situation in Gaza is a stark reminder of how political conflicts can lead to widespread human suffering. Starvation is not just a lack of food; it is a direct threat to human life, dignity, and health. Experts and international organizations emphasize that immediate humanitarian aid, lifting restrictions on food and medical supplies, and safe access for civilians are critical steps to prevent further deaths.

The crisis is not only a health emergency but also a human rights issue. The people of Gaza deserve access to food, clean water, and medical care. The international community has a responsibility to act swiftly to save lives and prevent further suffering.

Looking Ahead

As the crisis continues, the people of Gaza remain trapped in a situation where survival depends on international aid and the hope that political solutions will allow for humanitarian access. Without urgent action, starvation will continue to claim lives, leaving a generation of children and families in peril.