The death of three-month-old Yahya from starvation in Gaza has become a tragic symbol of the enclave's escalating humanitarian crisis. His aunt, Najla Al-Najjar, told reporters: "We couldn't find baby formula or food to feed him" – a refrain echoing through overcrowded hospitals and displacement camps.
Dr. Ragheb Warsh Agha of Al-Rantisi Children's Hospital reported receiving numerous cases of malnourished infants with chronic diarrhea, attributing the crisis to critical shortages of baby milk. At least 15 starvation-related deaths were recorded in Gaza within 24 hours, according to medical sources cited by Reuters.
The situation has deteriorated sharply since Israel implemented new aid restrictions in May, following a complete March blockade. Palestinian officials report 101 hunger-related deaths during the conflict, including 80 children – most occurring in recent weeks. While Israel maintains its measures prevent aid diversion to militant groups, international organizations warn of catastrophic food insecurity affecting 1.1 million people.
This crisis marks the first widespread starvation deaths reported since hostilities began in October 2023, with UN agencies warning that Gaza's food production systems have been "utterly decimated."
