Food Shortage in Gaza: A Daily Struggle for Survival

In the northern part of Gaza, tens of thousands of Palestinians are facing severe food shortages due to a month-long Israeli siege. The area has been cut off from food supplies, leading people to ration their last bits of lentils and flour. Some even risk their lives by searching for canned food in the ruins of destroyed homes. The situation is so dire that hospitals are seeing thousands of children suffering from malnutrition. A nutritionist reported treating a pregnant woman who weighed only 88 pounds. People in Gaza are determined to stay in their homes despite the hardships. They believe the siege is a tactic to force them out. The U. N. warns that famine is imminent, and the U. S. has given Israel an ultimatum to increase humanitarian aid. However, the number of trucks allowed in is far below the required amount. Israeli forces have been bombarding towns like Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun, making it even harder for people to find food. Witnesses report intense fighting and buildings being leveled by strikes. Palestinians describe their daily struggle to find food, water, and safety. They often have to scavenge for supplies in bombed-out buildings. The offensive has raised fears that Israel wants to depopulate the northern part of Gaza. Some Palestinians believe they are being forced to choose between surrender and starvation. The U. N. reports that food and supplies are also stretched in Gaza City, where many displaced people are sheltering. Doctors in Gaza City are seeing a high number of cases of malnutrition. They describe patients with protruding eyes and visible ribs. The situation is so severe that some people are living in tents or the rubble of destroyed buildings. As winter approaches, conditions are expected to worsen.