Israel has called the United Nations' declaration of famine in parts of Gaza an "outright lie," but multiple U.N. bodies, more than 100 humanitarian groups, and several of Israel's own allies have warned for months that the war and Israel's restrictions of food into Gaza are causing starvation among civilians.

Desperate Palestinians clutching pots and plastic buckets scrambled for rice at a charity kitchen in Gaza City yesterday, a day after the United Nations declared

A United Nations-backed body declared a famine in Gaza for the first time since the Israel-Hamas war broke out almost two years ago, a finding likely to intensify international calls for a ceasefire and accelerated delivery of aid.

"An entire population is being pushed into starvation, destitution, and death,” said Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister.

A UN-backed report warns that Gaza is facing a man-made famine affecting hundreds of thousands, while Israel prepares for a major offensive.

An immediate ceasefire is critical to allow a large-scale humanitarian response that can save lives, the UN said.