The ongoing Israeli restrictions on aid have exacerbated the food crisis in Gaza, leaving hospitals unable to provide adequate care. Healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, are also suffering from hunger, as they lack the necessary resources to treat patients. In central Gaza, a three-month-old infant named Salam, who was born weighing about 6.6 pounds, is now only 8.8 pounds — at least three pounds underweight, according to her mother, Hanin Barghouth. This dramatic weight loss highlights the severe impact of the crisis on children’s health.
Doctors and nurses are struggling to find food themselves, which has led to a situation where the medical staff is undernourished and unable to provide the necessary care for patients. The lack of food resources has compounded the challenges faced by hospitals, which are already overwhelmed by the number of patients seeking treatment. As the situation continues to worsen, the long-term effects on the health of both adults and children in Gaza remain a significant concern.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly since the onset of the conflict, with aid agencies reporting a dramatic increase in the number of people facing food insecurity. The Israel Defense Forces’ restrictions on aid have further limited the ability of local organizations to deliver essential supplies, exacerbating the crisis. The case of Salam underscores the severity of the food shortage, as children are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition and its long-term consequences.