TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — The “worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip,” the leading international authority on food crises said in a new alert Tuesday, predicting “widespread death” without immediate action.

As limited aid reaches Gaza, experts warn that malnutrition and starvation is causing long-term, irreversible harm to civilians.

The "worst-case scenario of famine" is unfolding in Gaza, according to a warning issued Tuesday by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification.

Israel's military offensive and blockade have led to the “worst-case scenario of famine” in the coastal territory of some 2 million Palestinians, according to the leading international authority on hunger crises.

US special envoy Steve Witkoff will visit Gaza on Friday to inspect food distribution sites, the White House said.

At least 46 Palestinians were killed in Israeli fire in the Gaza Strip since Tuesday evening, according to local hospitals