UN Warns 14,000 Gaza Babies Face Death Amid Israeli Blockade

The United Nations has issued a dire warning that 14,000 babies in Gaza face imminent death within 48 hours unless urgent humanitarian aid is allowed into the territory, which has been under an 11-week Israeli blockade. Despite Israel permitting a limited number of aid trucks—rising from fewer than 10 to about 100—the supplies remain grossly insufficient to meet the needs of over 2 million people facing famine and severe malnutrition. UN officials, including humanitarian coordinator Tom Fletcher and UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini, emphasize that the blockade is a deliberate tactic causing immense suffering, with more than 93 percent of Gaza's children at risk of famine and at least 57 children already dead from malnutrition. International pressure is mounting, with leaders from the UK, France, Canada, and 23 allied nations warning Israel to halt its military offensive and allow unrestricted aid access, threatening sanctions if it continues. Meanwhile, Israeli forces maintain heavy bombardment, including a major ground invasion and attacks on civilian shelters, prompting mass evacuations in southern Gaza. The humanitarian crisis is escalating rapidly, with UN and health officials highlighting the critical need for a political will to end the siege and prevent further loss of life.