UNRWA warns of Israel weaponizing starvation in Gaza

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini has warned that northern Gaza, besieged by the Israeli military for over a month, faces a looming famine. “Starvation is being weaponized by the state of Israel,” Lazzarini stated.

Lazzarini described the famine risk as “sadly foreseeable” given Gaza’s worsening conditions, noting that Palestinians there are deprived of essentials, including life-sustaining food supplies.

Lazzarini also emphasized the shortage of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza, with only about 30 aid trucks entering daily – covering just 6% of basic daily needs. He urged immediate political action to ensure consistent and sufficient aid access to northern Gaza.

The U.N.’s Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) recently reported a high famine risk in northern Gaza.

Israel’s forced displacement strategy in northern Gaza raises concerns

Since Oct. 5, the Israeli military has intensified airstrikes on northern Gaza, including the Jabalia Refugee Camp, followed by a ground offensive on Oct. 6. This escalation aligns with the “Generals’ Plan,” previously reported in Israeli media, aiming to clear northern Gaza of Palestinians to prepare land for Israeli settlement.

On Oct. 7, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee posted a social media update urging Palestinians in northern Gaza –including Beit Hanoun, Jabalia, and Beit Lahiya – to evacuate southward to Mevasi. The map he shared resembled the “Generals’ Plan,” developed under former Israeli General Giora Eiland, which calls for the forced relocation of Palestinians from northern Gaza, followed by a total blockade on food , fuel and clean water.

Since Oct.7, Israeli strikes on Gaza have killed 43,552 Palestinians, including 17,210 children and 11,742 women, with another 102,765 wounded. Thousands remain trapped under rubble as ongoing strikes continue to target hospitals, schools and essential infrastructure.