GAZA, Dec. 29 -- The number of monthly births in the Gaza Strip has fallen by 40 percent as health officials warn of a surge in miscarriages linked to malnutrition and the breakdown of medical services.

Munir al-Bursh, director general of the Gaza-based health authorities, said in a statement on Sunday that the number of newborns has dropped to approximately 17,000 per month, down from a monthly average of 26,000 in 2024.

Al-Bursh attributed the sharp decline to widespread maternal malnutrition, which he said has led to a spike in low birth weights and fetal loss. He accused Israel of exacerbating the crisis by restricting the entry of essential prenatal supplements and medical aid.

The director general further alleged that Israeli ...