At least 10 more Palestinians have died from starvation in the besieged Gaza Strip, bringing the malnutrition death toll since October 2023 to 111, according to health officials. This comes as at least 100 other Palestinians, including 34 aid seekers, were killed in Israeli attacks over the past 24 hours, Gaza's Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 21 children under five among the malnutrition deaths, citing an 80-day period between March and May when no food was delivered, and current deliveries remain insufficient. 111 organizations, including Mercy Corps and the Norwegian Refugee Council, declared that "mass starvation" is spreading, with aid blocked outside Gaza.

Al Jazeera reported that hunger is as deadly as the bombs, describing a situation of "engineered famine," while the UN World Food Programme emphasized the need for safe access to distribution points free from armed actors. Recurring attacks on aid seekers have overwhelmed Gaza's hospitals, impacting even medical workers and essential services. American doctor Nour Sharaf from al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City reported people dying of hunger after days without food. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes continue, including the killing of two Palestinian journalists, bringing the total number of media workers killed since October 2023 to 231.

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is in Europe for “very sensitive negotiations” regarding a Gaza ceasefire and captive release, involving mediation by Qatar and Egypt with US backing. A Palestinian official stated that Hamas responded to a 60-day ceasefire proposal, but amendments are needed on Israeli military withdrawal and aid distribution during a truce.

Impact Statement: The ongoing conflict and blockade in Gaza are causing a humanitarian crisis, with mass starvation and death tolls rising. Negotiations for a ceasefire and captive release are underway, but significant obstacles remain.