Government in Gaza cites 'initial stages of famine' in Strip

A statement released late Monday by the Government Media Office in Gaza details what it describes as the "initial stages of famine" given there has been an Israeli food, water, and fuel blockade for 16 days. 

"80% of citizens have lost access to food sources due to the closure of charity kitchens and the halt of aid distribution by relief organizations because of the lack of food supplies. Markets are completely empty of essential goods," the statement reads. 

"90% of Gaza’s residents have no access to water, forcing municipalities to ration well operations and suspend other services to preserve the remaining fuel supply."

The construction of new displacement camps has slowed, the burning of firewood is causing environmental hazards, and there has been a "near-total halt in public transportation, making it difficult for citizens to move, including patients and injured individuals who need to reach hospitals and medical centers," the statement said.

"We hold the leaders of the occupation fully responsible for this crime and all its consequences, especially the Israeli Prime Minister, Netanyahu, who is accused of crimes against humanity and is wanted by the International Criminal Court."

Earlier on Monday, the US State Department blamed Hamas for what it said was the "horrible suffering of the Gazan people."