While acknowledging Israel’s efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the U.S. emphasized that these efforts need to be sustained over time. The U.S. also called on Israel to halt its plan to ban the U.N. Palestinian relief agency, UNRWA, from operating in Gaza.
Palestinians, including children, in the Nuseirat refugee camp wait with empty pots for food distributed by an aid organization, as widespread starvation and shortages of basic supplies continue in Gaza City, Gaza, on Nov. 08, 2024. (AA Photo)
US calls on Israel to stop forcible displacement, starvation policies in Gaza
Palestinians displaced from shelters in Beit Hanoun cross the main Salaheddine road into Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip on bicycles and donkey carts following Israeli army evacuation orders on November 12, 2024, amid the ongoing war in the Palestinian territory between Israel and Hamas. (Photo by Omar AL-QATTAA / AFP)
Why it matters?
This warning highlights growing international concerns over the humanitarian impact of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The U.N. has raised alarms about the risk of famine in northern Gaza and the continued obstruction of humanitarian aid.
The U.S. is stressing the need for Israel to comply with international law, which could influence Israel’s diplomatic relations and future military aid.
The U.N. Security Council met to discuss a report from global hunger experts, who warned that famine is likely to strike northern Gaza as Israel continues its military offensive against Hamas.
U.N. aid coordinator Joyce Msuya reported that approximately 75,000 people in northern Gaza are facing critical shortages of food and water, as Israel blocks humanitarian aid.
Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. Danny Danon (AFP Photo)
Israel’s response
Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon rejected the famine warning, calling it "false."
He defended Israel’s humanitarian efforts, noting the risks Israeli soldiers face in delivering aid while managing ongoing security threats.
Other countries
Slovenia’s U.N. Ambassador Samuel Zbogar called for stronger action, stating that Israel’s assurances about protecting civilians in Gaza were insufficient.
Russia and China have supported a U.N. draft resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The resolution is still under negotiation in the Security Council, with non-permanent members pushing for a vote.
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