Gaza: A wave of hunger strikes is spreading across the Arab world in protest against Israel's ongoing blockade of Gaza, as Palestinian health officials warn that famine is killing children at an alarming rate. "If Gaza's children have nothing to eat, everyone should go on hunger strike," said Gaza Civil Defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal, who began a full hunger strike on July 20.

According to TRTworld.com, Basal expressed his determination by stating, "I will not eat until my people can eat, and aid is delivered in a humane way that respects human dignity," during an interview with Egypt's Al Qahera News Channel. His commitment has inspired others to join the cause, including Tunisian journalist Bassam Bounni, who announced he would begin a hunger strike to protest what he termed as Israel's use of starvation as a weapon and the militarization of humanitarian aid.

The International Committee to Break the Siege on Gaza has also stepped up efforts by calling for a global hunger strike on Tuesday, which has been dubbed the "Tuesday of Rage." The movement aims to draw international attention to the dire situation faced by the people of Gaza.

Gaza's Ministry of Health reported that at least 86 Palestinians—76 of them children—have died from hunger and malnutrition since October 2023, describing the crisis as "a silent massacre." The ministry noted 18 starvation-related deaths in the past 24 hours alone, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, the ministry has called for the immediate reopening of border crossings to allow essential food and medicine into the enclave. Since March 2, Israel has sealed all access points, exacerbating the suffering of Gaza's population.