Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations (UN) human rights experts warning that famine has already taken hold in the Strip. The intentional starvation campaign by Israel has resulted in widespread hunger and malnutrition, pushing Gaza to the brink of catastrophe.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) defines famine as a state of extreme food scarcity, with specific criteria including high levels of hunger, malnourished children, and an increased death rate. While Gaza has not officially been declared a famine zone, the situation remains dire with a significant portion of the population facing acute food insecurity.
The ongoing war and restricted aid access exacerbate the crisis, leaving many families struggling to survive. Despite efforts by aid agencies, barriers to delivering essential supplies persist. To prevent further suffering, a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid are crucial to addressing the escalating hunger crisis in Gaza.
The international community must act swiftly to avert a full-blown famine and provide much-needed support to the vulnerable population in Gaza.