UN Investigator Accuses Israel of Gaza 'Starvation Campaign'

The UN investigator on the right to food has accused Israel of conducting a 'starvation campaign' against Palestinians in Gaza, a claim Israel denies. Israel's military offensive blocked essential supplies into Gaza after Hamas’ attack in Israel. Despite eventual controlled aid deliveries, severe food shortages persist in the region.

The UN independent investigator on the right to food has accused Israel of carrying out a 'starvation campaign' against Palestinians during the war in Gaza, allegations that Israel strongly refutes.

In a recent report, investigator Michael Fakhri stated the blockade began two days following Hamas' surprise attack in southern Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities. Israel's military response included halting all food, water, fuel, and other essential supplies into Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has branded the accusations of limiting humanitarian aid as 'outrageously false'. Under heavy international pressure, including from the United States, Israel has allowed controlled aid through several border crossings. However, limited aid primarily reached southern and central Gaza, areas less affected by conflict, according to Fakhri. Despite the entry of aid, a significant portion of Palestinians in Gaza continue to face severe food scarcity.

(With inputs from agencies.)