Ankara: One-third of Gaza's population has not eaten for several days due to the ongoing Israeli blockade on the Palestinian enclave, the World Food Program (WFP) said.

According to Anadolu Agency, WFP highlights that the hunger crisis in Gaza has reached alarming levels, with a third of the population not consuming food for several consecutive days. Ross Smith, WFP director of emergency preparedness and response, stated that the situation has escalated to unprecedented levels of desperation.

WFP estimates indicate that a quarter of Gaza's population is experiencing famine-like conditions. Approximately 100,000 women and children are suffering from acute malnutrition, underlining the severe impact of the blockade on vulnerable groups.

Since March 2, Israel has sealed all crossings into Gaza, effectively halting the entry of food, medicine, and essential humanitarian aid. This blockade has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leaving many without access to basic necessities.

Gaza's Health Ministry reported that Israel's policy, which they describe as deliberate starvation, has resulted in the deaths of 86 Palestinians, including 76 children, since October 2023 due to hunger and malnutrition.