Netanyahu Denies Gaza Starvation: 'No Emaciated Prisoners Among Thousands'

Gaza Starvation Claims Debunked? Netanyahu's Assertion Sparks Debate Jerusalem, May 28, 2025 – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly denied claims of widespread starvation in Gaza. Speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem on Tuesday, Netanyahu stated, “Thousands and thousands of prisoners have taken their shirts off, and you don't see one – not one – emaciated.” This statement directly counters reports from humanitarian organizations and international observers who have expressed grave concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Netanyahu's assertion is based on the physical examinations of numerous prisoners. He claims that the absence of emaciated individuals among these thousands demonstrates a lack of mass starvation. However, critics argue that this assessment is limited in scope and fails to account for the broader population's suffering. The UN and other aid groups continue to report severe food shortages and malnutrition within the besieged territory. "The claim that there is no mass starvation is simply not true," said a spokesperson for a major international aid organization. "We are witnessing firsthand the devastating consequences of the blockade and the ongoing conflict on the civilian population. Malnutrition rates are alarmingly high, and access to food and essential supplies remains severely restricted." The debate surrounding the situation in Gaza continues, with conflicting reports and claims highlighting the complexity of the humanitarian crisis. The Prime Minister's statement, while providing a perspective, leaves many questions unanswered and does not address the wider concerns about access to food and essential resources for the Gazan population.