The United Nations has formally declared a famine in the Gaza Strip, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres describing the situation as “a man-made catastrophe, a moral indictment, and a failure of humanity.”
He warned that half a million people in Gaza are living in conditions of “catastrophic hunger,” stressing that the famine “is no mystery” but rather “a deliberate collapse of the systems essential for human survival.”
“Children are dying while those who should act are failing,” he lamented.
Guterres held Israel responsible “as the occupying power,” underlining that it has clear obligations under international law to ensure access to food and medical supplies. He stressed that the situation “cannot continue without accountability.”
The UN chief called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access, warning that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza will only deepen if action is not taken.
