Tragic Losses in Gaza: The Impact of Malnutrition and Conflict
In the past week, Gaza has witnessed heartbreaking losses, including a teenager searching for food and a man suffering from severe malnutrition. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, two new deaths attributed to malnutrition were reported within just 24 hours, amid growing concerns from aid agencies about the dire humanitarian crisis escalating under Israel’s blockade. While an Israeli government spokesperson pointed fingers at Hamas for the food shortages, the United Nations has raised alarms about the rapidly deteriorating conditions in Gaza, with the World Health Organization estimating that at least 10% of the population is acutely malnourished.
Abdullah Jendeia: A Young Life Cut Short
Nineteen-year-old Abdullah Omar Jendeia was tragically killed on Sunday, July 20, while on a quest to find food for his family. His sister, Nadreen, recounted the day, explaining that they were living in their mother’s damaged home in al-Sabra, central Gaza. Despite her pleas to eat the few lentils they had left, Abdullah set out at 4:00 PM local time to reach a weekly aid truck located over 5 kilometers away.
Later that night, Nadreen received devastating news from her brother Mahmoud—while they were waiting by the aid truck, Israeli soldiers opened fire. Abdullah was killed, and Mahmoud sustained injuries. "He was a joy to be around, kind-hearted and fun," Nadreen reminisced about their childhood walks along the beach and Abdullah’s dreams of starting a business post-war. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated they were taking precautions to minimize civilian harm, but the Hamas-run civil defense agency reported that 93 people had been killed that day, primarily near aid points.
Ahmed Alhasant: A Life Affected by Blockade
Ahmed Alhasant, 41, also succumbed to the effects of malnutrition on July 22. His brother, Yehia Alhasant, shared that Ahmed’s health declined significantly following the blockade imposed by Israel in March. Although some aid has trickled into Gaza since May, it has been insufficient. For three months, Ahmed, a diabetic, struggled to find enough food, surviving on minimal bread and occasional canned goods. His weight plummeted from 80 kg to a mere 35 kg, leading to severe health complications.
Despite attempts to seek medical help, the family was told that Ahmed needed food rather than medication. "He passed away peacefully at home," Yehia said, reflecting on Ahmed’s strong personality and kindness.
Mohamed Kullab: A Life Full of Promise
Mohamed Kullab, 29, was another victim of the ongoing conflict, killed in an airstrike on July 22 while resting in a tent at a displacement camp in Khan Younis. His brother-in-law, Amar Ragaida, shared that Mohamed had been looking for aid just a day before his tragic death. "He was a respectful young guy, full of life," Amar remembered, noting that Mohamed had a supportive role in the family, particularly for his younger siblings.
The IDF reiterated its commitment to minimizing civilian harm, requesting specific coordinates to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mohamed’s death.
Conclusion
These stories of Abdullah, Ahmed, and Mohamed highlight the urgent humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where the impacts of conflict and malnutrition are claiming lives. The international community must take note of the escalating situation and work towards solutions to alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza.
