Ankara: Israel's starvation campaign in Gaza is described as 'one of the worst cases of starvation, if not the worst,' in the 21st century by Michael Lynk, the former UN special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories.
According to Anadolu Agency, Lynk emphasized that the crisis is entirely human-made and unfolding with full international visibility. He noted that no other modern conflict has prompted such consistent international condemnation as Palestine. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a global hunger monitoring system, has warned that 'the worst-case scenario of famine' is currently unfolding in Gaza.
The IPC report highlights that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are contributing to a rise in hunger-related deaths. The report indicates that famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption in most of the Gaza Strip and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City. It further reveals that malnutrition has been rising rapidly, with over 20,000 Palestinian children treated for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July, including more than 3,000 severely malnourished.
Gaza's Health Ministry reports that at least 147 people have died of starvation since October 2023, including 88 children. Additionally, Israel's ongoing assault on the enclave has resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023, according to the latest ministry data.
Lynk reiterated that while past incidents of mass starvation occurred largely away from global attention, the crisis in Gaza is unfolding in full international view. He stressed the need for immediate international action, including sanctions and a halt to military support to Israel, to bring tangible change.
Lynk pointed out a divide in responses between the Global North and Global South. He noted that public sentiment in the Global South strongly opposes Israel's actions, viewing Gaza as a continuation of colonial struggles. In contrast, while some public opinion in the Global North rejects Israel's conduct, political leaders remain largely supportive or passive.
He highlighted the US's role in shielding Israel diplomatically at the UN Security Council and providing military and economic support, which perpetuates the occupation and violence. Lynk explained that as long as the US continues its support, international law will remain sidelined, with power prevailing over justice.