International outcry over images of emaciated children and increasing reports of hunger-related deaths have pressured Israel to let more aid into the Gaza Strip.

The hunger crisis in Gaza has many asking if Israel had a deliberate policy of starving civilians. Israelis say that was never the case, but an ignorance of Palestinian suffering allowed an inconsistent government policy to lead to a calamity.

Starvation in Gaza under Israel’s assault has reached a “tipping point,” with deaths expected to soar if Palestinians do not get urgent relief, while many children who survive will now face lifelong consequences.

The “worst-case scenario of famine” is unfolding in Gaza, according to a warning issued by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification.