famine

The UN has warned an intensification of the offensive on an area where a famine has already been declared will push civilians into an "even deeper catastrophe".

Last month a UN-backed body confirmed that there was famine in Gaza and the UN's humanitarian chief said it was the direct result of Israel's "systematic obstruction" of aid entering Gaza.

Last month a UN-backed body confirmed that there was famine in the territory and the UN's humanitarian chief said it was the direct result of Israel's "systematic obstruction" of aid entering Gaza.

The Gaza health ministry also reported that five people had died during the same period, including three children, from famine and malnutrition.

The UN estimates nearly one million people remain in Gaza City, where it declared a famine last month.