WHO warns: Gaza’s malnutrition crisis hits alarming levels
UN Health Agency Highlights Consequences of Aid Blockages in Gaza
WHO Statement—The World Health Organization has warned that the deliberate blocking of food, medical supplies, and humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip has resulted in a significant loss of life and is entirely preventable.
Malnutrition Crisis Details
- Of the 74 deaths related to malnutrition recorded in 2025, 63 occurred in July, including 24 children under five, one child over five, and 38 adults.
- Most victims were declared dead on arrival at health facilities or died shortly after, displaying severe wasting.
- The crisis remains fully preventable; deliberate blocking and delay of aid has cost many lives.
Acute Malnutrition Statistics
- Nearly one in five children under five in Gaza City is now acutely malnourished.
- The proportion of children aged six to 59 months suffering from acute malnutrition has tripled in the city since June, making it the worst‑hit area in the Palestinian territory.
- In Khan Yunis and central Gaza, rates have doubled in less than a month.
- These figures are likely underestimated due to severe access and security constraints preventing many families from reaching health facilities.
Israel’s Tactical Pause and WHO Call for Sustained Aid
Israel has begun a limited “tactical pause” in military operations to allow the UN and aid agencies to address the worsening hunger crisis. The WHO has urged that the Gaza Strip be flooded with diverse, nutritious food and that therapeutic supplies for children and vulnerable groups, essential medicines, and supplies be delivered promptly.
This flow must remain consistent and unhindered to support recovery and prevent further deterioration.
