The UN has warned that widespread famine is a looming threat in the besieged strip, and claims hundreds of Palestinians have been shot while trying to collect aid near distribution sites.

The president has in recent days acknowledged there is “starvation” in Gaza, a break with Israeli officials who have faced deep criticism over the humanitarian crisis there.

As images of starving children in Gaza flood the news and the death toll climbs, Melania Trump has pushed President Trump to reject Israel's denial of a hunger crisis.