Lazareini: Israel must not deny the famine it has created in Gaza.

The Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, stated that the Israeli government must stop denying the famine it has caused in the Gaza Strip. This came in a post on the 'X' platform, where he urged all influential figures in the world to use their influence with determination and a sense of moral duty to deter Israel from deepening the famine in the besieged sector.

Lazzarini added: "It is time for the Israeli government to stop denying the famine it has caused in Gaza." He emphasized the need for swift action to stop the famine, noting that "every hour counts."

Lazzarini's statements come in response to a report published on Friday by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), which confirmed that famine in the Gaza Governorate has been verified. The report also predicted that famine would extend to the Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis Governorates by the end of next September.

In this context, the Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed that the United Nations' announcement of famine came "late," but reflects the reality of Israeli starvation policies in the sector. The ministry noted that the death toll from malnutrition since October 2023 has reached 281 Palestinians, including 114 children.

Despite allowing a limited number of humanitarian aid trucks to enter about three weeks ago, famine continues, as most of those trucks are being stolen by local gangs allegedly protected by Israel. Since March 2, Israel has closed all crossings leading to Gaza, preventing any humanitarian aid.

It is worth noting that the Israeli aggression against Gaza, supported by the United States, since October 7, 2023, has led to a genocide that includes killing, starvation, and destruction, ignoring international calls and orders from the International Court of Justice. This aggression has resulted in over 62,000 deaths and 157,000 injuries, most of whom are children and women.