Thousands of children in Gaza are facing a battle to stay alive due to acute food shortages, a British-based charity said today.

Save the Children UK said many youngsters were at risk from malnutrition as it launched an appeal to raise £6.8 million to combat the deepening humanitarian crisis.

The charity warned that, without an immediate ceasefire, reaching those in need was difficult.

Osama Damo, from the charity, said: “We already have more than 1,000 emergency food parcels in our Gaza warehouse but it is not safe to distribute them.

”Save the Children is calling for an immediate ceasefire so we can reach those who desperately need our help.

”We are working to stockpile supplies so that as soon as there is a break in the air strikes, we can deliver the vital aid.

”We are urging people across the UK and the world to help the children of Gaza and their families by donating to our appeal.”

Britain has already pledged millions of pounds towards emergency humanitarian aid in the crisis-stricken region.

International Development Secretary Douglas Alexander said the money would help provide urgently-needed food and fuel to the Palestinian territory, shattered by four days of Israeli air strikes.

The assistance comes amid continued international pressure, supported by the UK, for a ceasefire in Gaza, where hundreds of people have been killed.

To make a donation, go to www.savethechildren.org.uk or call 0207 012 6400.