Gaza: As the second anniversary of the military assault on Gaza approaches, reports increasingly highlight Israel's alleged violations of international law and human rights in the region. The denial of essential resources like food and water in conflict zones is regarded as a war crime, yet Gaza is witnessing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
According to Anadolu Agency, the blockade of Gaza, which has been in place since 2007, has led to a systematic deprivation of essential resources, turning it into a man-made famine. The situation has been exacerbated by the deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid, which is reportedly used as a tool of warfare, leading to mass starvation and immeasurable suffering among civilians, particularly women and children.
The blockade has been a long-standing issue, with Israel accused of calculating the minimum caloric intake needed for survival, a tactic dubbed as the "Gaza Diet." As the conflict continues, the entire population of Gaza, numbering 2.3 million, is reportedly being collectively punished and targeted. Humanitarian aid convoys remain at border crossings, unable to deliver essential supplies.
Starvation has ravaged Gaza, spreading rapidly across the territory. By late 2023, living conditions had deteriorated significantly; many Gazans were residing in makeshift shelters without basic necessities. Despite mounting evidence, international bodies like the UN's Integrated Food Security Phase Classification have not formally declared a famine, allegedly due to political pressures.
Reports indicate that Israel has denied allegations of using starvation as a weapon, while Western governments have hesitated to label the crisis as a famine or genocide. Throughout the conflict, Israel has reportedly attacked aid convoys and civilians, with the blockade entering a more severe phase in early 2025.
The establishment of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, under Israeli supervision, marked a significant shift in aid distribution. This entity replaced numerous non-militarized UN distribution points with a few centralized centers, significantly increasing the risk for civilians attempting to access aid. The result has been dire, with numerous reports of violence at distribution centers.
In July 2025, a World Food Programme convoy was reportedly attacked, resulting in over 100 Palestinian casualties. The famine, though not officially declared, is undeniably impacting Gaza. Recent reports indicate a high death toll from hunger, with children suffering the most severe consequences. The humanitarian crisis continues, with projections of escalating deaths unless immediate international intervention occurs.
*Opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect Anadolu's editorial policy.*