As hunger reaches new levels in Gaza, society is on the brink of collapse. Even doctors are struggling to find the energy to treat patients without enough food themselves. At least 147 people have died of malnutrition, including 88 children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Medics have said that is probably an undercount. In recent months, more than 1,000 Palestinians have also been killed while waiting for aid distributed in Israeli-controlled combat zones.

Israel has tightened its control of humanitarian aid going into Gaza in recent months to pressure Hamas. Israel has blamed Hamas for the crisis and its refusal to release the remaining hostages. The latest round of ceasefire talks involving the United States broke down last week.

International pressure is mounting on Israel to lift its near total blockade on Gaza. President Donald Trump recently voiced concerns about the situation.

Israel has started allowing more aid trucks in, and it resumed power to a critical water treatment plant. Critics worry about whether enough is being done.

Today, host Colby Itkowitz speaks with Louisa Loveluck, a foreign correspondent for The Washington Post who has been reporting for months about the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and what the future holds.

Today’s show was produced by Rennie Svirnovskiy with help from Elana Gordon. It was edited by Maggie Penman and Erin Cunningham. It was mixed by Sean Carter.

Subscribe to The Washington Post.

Gazans are starving. Will aid get in?

Post Reports