Key Takeaways
- The World Health Organization (WHO) is urgently appealing for the approval and entry of essential medical supplies and equipment into Gaza, where health facilities face severe shortages due to complex entry procedures and restrictions.
- Over 100,000 children and 37,000 pregnant and nursing women in Gaza are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition through at least April 2026, despite some improvements in food security.
- A Rapid Support Forces (RSF) official has denied reports regarding the use of Colombian mercenaries in Sudan, even as investigations suggest their involvement.
Gaza's Dire Health and Nutrition Crisis
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent call for the expedited approval and entry of essential medical supplies, equipment, and prefabricated hospital structures into Gaza. Health facilities across the Strip are grappling with critical shortages, exacerbated by complex entry procedures and restrictions, with many items classified as "dual-use" and denied entry. Only about 50% of Gaza's health facilities are partially functional, many having sustained damage during the conflict.
The humanitarian situation is further compounded by a severe malnutrition crisis. More than 100,000 children aged six to 59 months and 37,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition through mid-October 2026, with over 31,000 severe cases among children. While recent improvements in humanitarian and commercial deliveries have pushed back famine conditions in some areas, the situation remains perilously fragile, with 1.6 million people (approximately 77% of the population) still facing acute food insecurity. Health services, water and sanitation systems, housing, and livelihoods remain severely damaged, leaving the population highly vulnerable, particularly as winter progresses.
Rapid Support Forces Deny Mercenary Allegations
In Sudan, an official from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has categorically denied reports alleging the use of Colombian mercenaries within their ranks. This denial comes amidst ongoing investigations by news agencies like AFP, which have uncovered evidence suggesting the recruitment of hundreds of Colombian ex-soldiers to bolster the RSF.
Investigations indicate that Colombian mercenaries were allegedly recruited via WhatsApp, brought to Sudan through the UAE, and underwent brief training missions before deploying to conflict zones, including Darfur. These fighters were reportedly sought after for their expertise in drone and artillery warfare, receiving monthly payments between $2,500 and $4,000. The UAE has consistently denied accusations of backing the RSF or providing any form of support to either warring party in Sudan. Sudan's civil war, which erupted in April 2023, has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and claiming tens of thousands of lives.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.