Over 109 aid and human rights organizations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council, and Doctors Without Borders (MSF), have issued a joint statement urging governments to take immediate action regarding the escalating starvation crisis in Gaza. The groups cite Israel's blockade as the cause, preventing the delivery of essential supplies despite tons of food, water, and medical aid sitting outside the enclave. Hospitals in Gaza report ten new famine-related deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 111. The UN reports over 1,000 deaths in recent weeks among those attempting to reach aid distribution centers.

The organizations demand a permanent ceasefire, the lifting of all restrictions on humanitarian aid, and the opening of all land crossings. They also call for the rejection of military-controlled aid distribution and a return to a UN-led humanitarian response, urging governments to halt weapons transfers to the region. The EU has warned Israel of potential action, while the US plans to send an envoy for ceasefire talks. Hamas has called for widespread protests. Aid workers themselves are facing starvation and describe the situation as a "man-made humanitarian crisis."

Impact Statement: The escalating starvation crisis in Gaza presents a major humanitarian catastrophe demanding immediate international intervention to prevent further loss of life and widespread suffering.