Gaza city: Israeli naval forces have detained five Palestinian fishermen off the coast of Gaza City as they attempted to catch food amidst a severe famine exacerbated by the ongoing blockade on the enclave. The incident occurred on Saturday evening, as confirmed by a local official who spoke to Anadolu Agency.
According to Anadolu Agency, the fishermen ventured into the sea in a desperate bid to secure daily sustenance, given the nearly depleted food supplies in local markets. A representative from the Fishermen's Syndicate in Gaza, who chose to remain anonymous, reported that the fishermen were pursued and arrested by Israeli gunboats and subsequently taken to an undisclosed location.
The blockade, in effect since March 2, 2025, has resulted in the closure of all crossings into Gaza and a ban on the entry of food and medical aid, leading to a widespread famine. Palestinian figures indicate that at least 620 Palestinians have died due to the lack of food and medicine, including 69 children who have succumbed to malnutrition since October 2023.
Local authorities have raised alarms about the dire situation, warning that 650,000 children are at risk of death from malnutrition and hunger. Additionally, around 60,000 pregnant women are facing severe threats due to the unavailability of essential healthcare and nutrition.
The Health Ministry reported an influx of starving Gazans arriving at emergency departments in extreme exhaustion, with hundreds facing imminent death as their weakened bodies struggle to endure the hunger. Despite the grim circumstances, the Israeli army maintains strict prohibitions on fishing in Gaza's waters, targeting anyone who attempts to fish with gunfire or arrest.
In defiance of international appeals for a ceasefire, the Israeli army's offensive on Gaza, ongoing since October 7, 2023, has resulted in nearly 59,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly affecting women and children. The sustained bombardment has devastated the enclave, causing food shortages and disease outbreaks.
In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Furthermore, Israel is facing genocide charges at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the enclave.