Gaza baby dies as starvation spreads

More than a hundred aid organizations warned Wednesday that “mass starvation” was spreading in Gaza under Israeli assault and aid restrictions.

His tiny body crumpled on a cold metal table, 6-week-old Youssef al-Safadi's clothing was gently removed by the morgue worker inside Gaza City's Al Shifa hospital, revealing his protruding ribs and hollow stomach.

Youssef died Tuesday from malnutrition, according to his family. "We couldn’t provide any kind of milk for him — no formula, no supplements, no vitamins," his father, Adham al-Safadi, told NBC News’ crew on the ground. "And if you do find it, it will cost at least $100."

Doctors and aid groups have warned of a hunger crisis now reaching a crescendo in the besieged Palestinian enclave under Israeli military assault. Four children were among 15 people who died from severe malnutrition in just 24 hours, the Palestinian Health Ministry said Tuesday. The ministry said Wednesday that another 10 people had died of malnutrition.

NBC News was not immediately able to independently confirm the figures.

More than a hundred aid organizations warned Wednesday that “mass starvation” was spreading in Gaza, with aid workers among those suffering from the lack of adequate food. People are collapsing in the streets, the United Nations' humanitarian agency reported.