Israel's military offensive and blockade have led to the “worst-case scenario of famine” in the coastal territory of some 2 million Palestinians, according to the leading international authority on hunger crises.

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has begun talks in Israel, first meeting with right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to the leader's office. Israeli media reported their discussion on Thursday focused on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip,

Gaza is unique in having almost all civilians trapped under Hamas for 21 months, leading to the endless crisis of aid provision. The IDF said earlier this week it would begin tofacilitate more humanitarian aid entering Gaza,