Israel reveals that two children showcased in global media as “starved by Israel” are in fact suffering from rare genetic diseases — exposing Hamas propaganda and media manipulation.
The IDF has released documents showing that high-profile images of Gazan children allegedly “starved by Israel” are part of a Hamas-driven propaganda campaign — with the children actually suffering from genetic illnesses.
On Saturday, the Daily Mirror ran a front-page story featuring 3-year-old Karim Ali Fouad Abu Mu’amar, claiming his condition was the result of “famine” in Gaza.
But on Sunday, COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories) set the record straight:
“Karim suffers from a genetic illness — Fanconi syndrome — which caused muscle and urinary tract weakness. It is a hereditary disease that has also affected other family members.”
COGAT blasted the report, saying Hamas is “spreading false narratives as part of a deceptive propaganda campaign, while international media uncritically serve as their platform.”
⚠️ Another Case of Media Deception
This is not the first incident. Last month, images of 5-year-old Osama al-Rakab went viral, with activists claiming Israel was starving him.
In reality, Osama also suffers from a serious genetic disorder unrelated to the war. Far from being abandoned, the IDF coordinated his medical evacuation through Ramon Airport on June 12, alongside his mother and brother.
Today, Osama is in Italy receiving treatment.
COGAT posted on X:
“Tragic images rightfully stir strong emotions, but when misused to fuel hatred and lies, they do more harm than good. Don’t let compassion be exploited for propaganda. Check the facts before parroting blame.”
📰 Weaponizing Children for Propaganda
Israel accuses Hamas of deliberately exploiting children’s suffering to frame Israel as committing war crimes, while Western media often fail to verify facts before publication.
The revelations raise pressing questions about journalistic accountability in wartime reporting and highlight how emotional manipulation fuels global hostility toward Israel.
