Gaza Herald – Omar Harb, a respected Palestinian academic, writer, and poet, has died from severe malnutrition caused by Israel’s ongoing blockade of Gaza. Harb, 60, had lost 26 family members, including his wife, children, and grandchildren, to Israeli attacks before succumbing to starvation.
Local media reports that Harb’s health deteriorated dramatically in recent weeks, dropping from nearly 120 kg before the start of the genocide to around 40 kg at the time of one of his last interviews. He had repeatedly called for food, medicine, treatment, and mobility assistance, none of which arrived in time to save him.
Harb was known for his work in psychology and his commitment to helping Gazans cope with trauma under siege conditions. Even as the Israeli onslaught destroyed multiple family homes, he continued offering support to his community until his health collapsed.
The Gaza Health Ministry says 1.9 million people are currently suffering from malnutrition, with 641,000 facing the most severe levels of famine. In late August, the UN-backed Integrated Food Phase Classification officially declared Gaza in a state of famine.
Harb’s death highlights the devastating human toll of the siege, underscoring the urgent need for unrestricted humanitarian aid and international intervention to prevent further deaths.
