As the war on Gaza enters its sixth month amidst international and UN warnings about famine spreading among many of the densely populated Palestinian residents, especially in the north, the United Nations has renewed its criticism of Israel. UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Turk confirmed that there are "reasonable" grounds to believe that Israel is using starvation as a weapon of war in Gaza. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) on Thursday, he stated that this could rise to the level of "war crimes" if Israel's intent is proven.
Additionally, the UN Commissioner emphasized that Israel bears "significant responsibility" for slowing or obstructing the entry of aid into Gaza, noting that there is evidence to support this claim. He added, "The human rights situation is so dire that it requires an immediate ceasefire." Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi accused Israel on Monday of using "starvation" as a weapon in the Gaza Strip, stating that what is happening in the region must stop immediately and underscoring the necessity for Israel to adhere to international law.
It is worth noting that famine now threatens most of the besieged and devastated population of 2.4 million in the strip, according to the UN. Most residents have been displaced due to war and destruction, moving south, while relief agencies report that about 300,000 of those who remained in northern Gaza are suffering the most from hunger, lack of water, and malnutrition, and are difficult to access.
