UN and WFP's Cindy McCain Warn of Starvation in Gaza with Over 500,000 Hungry Amid UNRWA Warnings and Aid Delays

The United Nations and the World Food Program (WFP) have raised urgent alarms about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where women and children are facing starvation. Cindy McCain, head of the WFP, after visiting Gaza, described the situation as a breaking point, highlighting widespread destruction, desperation, and insufficient food aid despite increased shipments. The UN humanitarian chief has called for an immediate and sustained cessation of hostilities to prevent further loss of life and the expansion of famine. The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) spokesperson in Gaza reported that famine is prevalent across most areas of the territory, particularly in Gaza City, with over half a million people currently hungry. UNRWA also warned that any Israeli military escalation would exacerbate suffering, potentially triggering a humanitarian catastrophe and forcing nearly one million people into further displacement. While there are food supplies at border crossings sufficient for three months, delays have caused spoilage of some aid. UNRWA emphasized it remains the sole entity capable of meeting the population's needs. The agency also noted a significant internal displacement wave towards the western and southern parts of Gaza, cautioning that forced displacement could lead to disaster. Israeli authorities were described as denying the severity of the famine and civilian casualties. Discussions between UN officials and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have underscored the urgent need for increased food aid access.