UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini says child malnutrition in Gaza City has risen six-fold since March, warning the crisis could deepen if Israel launches its planned offensive.

“We have a population that is extremely weak that will be confronted with a new major military operation,” Lazzarini said at a Geneva press club meeting. “Many will simply not have the strength to undergo a new displacement.”

“If there is no crisis plan, then they (the children suffering from malnutrition) will certainly be condemned,” he said, addressing the audience in French.