Thu Dec 26 08:49:48 UTC 2024: ## Israeli Public Focused on Hostages as Gaza Faces Looming Famine, Official Says
**JERUSALEM** – While Israelis remain largely focused on the fate of hostages held by Hamas, a looming humanitarian crisis in Gaza is escalating, according to warnings from humanitarian agencies. This disconnect between public attention and the deteriorating situation in Gaza was highlighted by former Israeli foreign ministry official Alon Liel, who asserted that the Israeli public is largely unaware of the daily struggles within the besieged territory.
Liel stated that the Israeli government appears unconcerned by potential international criticism and intends to continue its actions in Gaza according to its own assessment of the situation. This suggests a potential prioritization of domestic concerns related to the hostage situation over the growing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, which is threatened by widespread famine. The statement underscores the complex and potentially conflicting priorities facing Israel amidst the ongoing conflict.
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