A group of U.S. government humanitarian experts raised serious concerns among officials regarding the escalating hunger and malnutrition crisis in Gaza amid the U.S.-backed Israeli offensive, describing it as a situation "unprecedented in modern history."
They warned that parts of the Gaza Strip are likely already experiencing famine, and the rate of hunger-related deaths is expected to rise sharply in the coming weeks.
This stark assessment was conveyed in a cable prepared by officials at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and distributed to the White House’s National Security Council, State Department offices, and diplomatic posts worldwide.
It echoes the assessments of external aid groups, highlighting the Biden administration's awareness of the potential for a significant increase in the death toll in Gaza as it continues to support Israel’s military campaign and resist calls for a permanent cessation of hostilities.
The experts emphasized the urgent need for a substantial influx of food, health, nutrition, and sanitation assistance, as well as expanded humanitarian access and safe passage for aid workers, to address the famine conditions in Gaza.
However, they also acknowledged the considerable challenges humanitarian organizations will face in providing life-saving aid and specialized services to those in need as long as the conflict continues.