Famine Declared in Gaza, UNICEF Warns of a ‘Survival Crisis’ for Children

A formal declaration of famine has been made in Gaza amid a severe humanitarian crisis. The United Nations children’s agency, UNICEF, has warned that this now constitutes a “real survival crisis for children” and that for many, “it is already too late.”

Early Saturday, at least 37 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes, including four children. Continuous attacks across multiple locations during the early morning hours increased the death toll.

Meanwhile, tensions have also surfaced within Israel. In Kiryat Malakhi, central Israel, several citizens protested against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, alleging that his opposition to a ceasefire is hindering the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, and that he should be held accountable.

Protesters carried pictures of the hostages and chanted slogans, claiming, “The biggest obstacle to a resolution is the extremist ministers within the government.” In response, Ben-Gvir accused the protesters of attempting to evade military draft obligations.

Humanitarian workers report that the ongoing blockade and food shortages are hitting Gaza’s general population—especially children and women—the hardest. The formal declaration of famine is expected to increase international pressure for urgent action.