Famine Grips Gaza: UN-Backed Report Warns of Widespread Starvation and Malnutrition
A dire situation unfolds in the Gaza Strip as UN-backed experts report that the "worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out." The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) indicates mounting evidence of widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease leading to increased hunger-related deaths among the 2.1 million Palestinians in Gaza. The IPC reports that famine thresholds have been surpassed for food consumption in most of Gaza and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City.
Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds
UN agencies have previously warned of man-made mass starvation, reporting at least 63 malnutrition-related deaths this month. They attribute the crisis to Israel's control over the entry of supplies. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the situation as a humanitarian catastrophe. Despite Israel's partial easing of the blockade, shortages of food, medicine, and fuel have worsened. Israel insists there are no restrictions on aid deliveries, announcing measures to facilitate aid collection and distribution, including daily "tactical pauses" in military operations.
IPC Urges Immediate Action
The IPC urges immediate action to end hostilities and allow unimpeded humanitarian aid. While the report doesn't formally declare a famine, it notes the devastation caused by intensified military operations. Malnutrition has risen rapidly, with over 20,000 children admitted to clinics for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July, and hospitals reporting a rise in hunger-related deaths of children under five.
Aid Shortages and Looting Complicate Relief Efforts
The World Food Programme and Unicef express alarm over breached famine thresholds. They caution that gathering mortality data is difficult due to collapsing health systems. The WFP's executive director, Cindy McCain, emphasizes the need to flood Gaza with aid immediately. Despite Israeli claims of facilitating aid, Gaza residents report minimal improvement in food availability.
Some residents reported criminal gangs intercepting and looting aid convoys. While Israel accuses Hamas of stealing aid, reports suggest no systematic theft has been proven. The Israeli military initiated the Gaza campaign following the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. Since then, over 60,000 people have died in Gaza, according to the territory's health ministry.
