UN Condemns Israel's "Weaponisation of Food" in Gaza, a War Crime

Strategic Insights -

The United Nations human rights office has strongly condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, describing the "weaponisation of food" as a war crime. The UN has warned that desperate and hungry people in Gaza are being forced to choose between starvation and risking their lives to get food, as Israel's military continues to shell and shoot Palestinians trying to reach aid distribution points. The situation has led to reports of multiple fatalities and injuries, with over 410 Palestinians killed and at least 93 others killed while attempting to access UN and humanitarian aid convoys.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UN has condemned Israel's "weaponisation of food" in Gaza as a war crime, with the human rights office warning that Israel's actions are in contradiction with international standards on aid distribution.
  • Since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) began food distribution operations, over 410 Palestinians have been killed and at least 93 others have been reportedly killed by the Israeli army while trying to access aid convoys.
  • At least 3,000 Palestinians have been injured in these incidents, with each killing requiring prompt and impartial investigation and those responsible being held accountable.
  • The UN has demanded that Israel stop shooting at people trying to get food, allow the entry of food and other humanitarian assistance, and immediately lift unlawful restrictions on the work of UN and other humanitarian actors.
  • The UN has called on other countries to take concrete steps to ensure that Israel complies with its duty to provide sufficient food and lifesaving necessities to the population of Gaza.

Statistics:

  • 100% of the population of Gaza are at risk of famine according to the UN.
  • Over 410 Palestinians have been killed as a result of the Israeli military's actions.
  • At least 93 others have been reportedly killed by the Israeli army while attempting to access aid convoys.
  • At least 3,000 Palestinians have been injured in these incidents.
  • Reports suggest that the Israeli military has shelled and shot Palestinians trying to reach aid distribution points.

Sources:

  • The United Nations human rights office, written notes provided before a briefing.
  • The United Nations, warning of mass famine in Gaza in May 2023.
  • UN rights office spokesman Thameen Al-Kheetan, briefing notes.
  • Reports from aid groups and humanitarian organizations.