Gaza’s humanitarian crisis has deepened, with eight more people dying from famine and malnutrition, according to health authorities. This brings the total number of hunger-related deaths in the enclave to 289, including 115 children, since the start of the war with Israel 22 months ago. The situation is dire, with over half a million people facing famine conditions, as classified by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).
A recent IPC report, released on Friday, confirmed that famine is already occurring in Gaza City and could spread to southern areas by the end of next month. This is the first time the IPC has confirmed a famine in the Middle East. The report’s findings are based on data from July and early August, which showed that thresholds for extreme food deprivation, acute malnutrition, and hunger-related deaths have been breached.
Aid groups have long warned that the war and Israeli restrictions on food and medical supplies entering Gaza are causing widespread starvation. However, Israel has rejected the IPC report, dismissing it as an “outright lie.” Despite this, the IPC’s assessment is clear: by the end of September, over 640,000 people are projected to face catastrophic food insecurity, with more than a million at emergency levels and nearly 400,000 in crisis conditions.
The Israeli government has announced plans to seize Gaza City and other Hamas strongholds, a move that experts say will exacerbate the hunger crisis. The situation in Gaza is complex, with the war and restrictions on essential supplies taking a devastating toll on the civilian population. As the crisis deepens, the need for a humanitarian response and a resolution to the conflict becomes increasingly urgent.
The IPC’s classification of famine in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict. With thousands of people already affected and many more at risk, the international community must take notice and respond to the crisis. The situation in Gaza requires immediate attention and action to prevent further suffering and loss of life.
