Israel’s starvation of Gaza leaves children stunted

Israel's ongoing siege of Gaza has left Palestinian children severely malnourished and stunted, with lasting developmental consequences. Ten-year-old Mohammed Ahmed Massoud al-Sousi, who suffers from malnutrition due to Israeli restrictions on aid, suffers from stunted growth and lacks specialist care. Six-year-old Amira Rashid lies weak and bruised, unable to attend school or interact with peers.

Her condition was exacerbated by months of starvation, leaving her weighing just 12.5kg at six years old. The UN-IPC declared famine in Gaza City in August 2025, and doctors have warned that Amira's body no longer responds to treatment, requiring treatment abroad. The crisis has also affected unborn children, with premature births and severe complications resulting from maternal malnutrition.

Doctors in Gaza are unable to provide necessary specialized tests, leaving many children without proper diagnoses and treatment options.