Israeli UN envoy cites new nutritional data to challenge Gaza famine claims

Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, has stated that new nutritional data from Gaza undermines previous allegations of widespread famine and intentional starvation. Describing earlier claims as a "blood libel" that relied on Hamas-provided reports, Danon challenged the narrative surrounding the humanitarian crisis. According to Fox News, the SMART nutrition survey—conducted in coordination with the UNICEF-affiliated Nutrition Cluster and presented by the Palestinian Authority’s nutrition group on 22 July 2026—assessed 1,335 children under the age of five. While the sample covered 83% of Gaza’s population, security and operational constraints prevented access to the remaining 17%. The survey found that acute malnutrition rates, measured by weight-for-height, ranged between 0.2% and 0.8%, with a global estimate of 0.5%. Mid-upper arm circumference measurements indicated a 1.3% rate. Evaluators concluded that there is no widespread acute malnutrition at the population level, noting that these figures are lower than those in some neighbouring countries. However, the report highlighted persistent issues, including stunting, limited dietary diversity, and disease. Fox News noted that these findings suggest malnutrition rates are now similar to or lower than those recorded before the Israel-Hamas war. Danon also criticised comments made by UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher, who warned in a 2025 BBC interview that 14,000 infants were at risk of death within 48 hours without urgent aid. This figure was later clarified as an 11-month projection for children at risk of severe malnutrition. Danon asserted that the claim was "false and did not happen," though the report does not independently assess Fletcher’s remarks. The Israeli envoy stated that Israel tracks food shipments into Gaza through its control of border crossings. He alleged that Hamas has sold aid on the black market to profit from inflated prices. Danon added that Israel is seeking to partner with non-governmental organisations free from Hamas influence to ensure aid distribution. The conflict, which began following the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel, entered a new phase on 10 October 2025 following a ceasefire agreement. Despite the truce, military operations persist, and negotiations regarding a 15-point US peace and disarmament plan remain stalled. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed. Danon reiterated that while Israel does not seek to govern Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas remains a prerequisite for peace.