New york: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a warning regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating that the situation has reached an unprecedented level of deterioration. The entire population is now facing food insecurity, with nearly 500,000 individuals teetering on the brink of famine.

According to Qatar News Agency, WFP Deputy Executive Director Karl Skau, who recently visited Gaza, reported during a press briefing in New York that the state of affairs is worse than anything he has previously witnessed. Humanitarian needs are at an all-time high, while the ability to respond effectively is more restricted than ever before.

Skau highlighted the rapidly worsening malnutrition, emphasizing that nearly 90,000 children are in urgent need of treatment. He also noted that one-third of Gaza’s population is going days without food. During his visit, Skau met with many families who shared their struggles, including mothers who try to prevent their children from playing to conserve energy due to the scarce food supply.

Skau confirmed that the UN has adequate food supplies at the border to sustain the entire population for nearly two months. However, he stressed that delivering this aid requires a ceasefire, full access through all crossings, and safety for humanitarian workers.

The situation’s desperation is further underscored by reports of civilians being killed while searching for food, Skau noted. Since October 7, 2023, Israel has conducted a full-scale offensive on the Gaza Strip, resulting in at least 57,823 Palestinian deaths and 137,887 injuries. The assault has devastated every part of the Strip, making life nearly unlivable for its residents.