Taoiseach Micheál Martin statement on famine conditions in Gaza

Following confirmation of famine in Gaza City for the first time by the UN-backed IPC, Israel has an absolute obligation to allow the people there unfettered and urgent access to humanitarian aid, medical and food supplies.

Famine in Gaza was both entirely predictable and preventable.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification has been raised to Phase 5, the highest possible level of food insecurity, in what has been described as an “entirely man-made” and “catastrophic” situation.

Israel must stop its attacks on, and bombardment of, Gaza City.

The withholding of food and water from civilians is collective punishment of the people of Gaza, and a war crime.

The retention of hostages by Hamas is also a war crime, and it is long past time for their unconditional release and an end to this war.

The inhumanity we are witnessing in Gaza has shocked the world. The maiming, mutilation and killing of children simply has to stop. The war must end now.

Ends