The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached alarming levels, with the United Nations confirming that famine conditions now exist in the region. In just 24 hours, ten more Palestinians, including two children, have died from starvation and malnutrition, bringing the total hunger-related death toll to 313 since the conflict escalated in October 2023. Joyce Msuya, the UN’s deputy humanitarian chief, highlighted that over half a million people in Gaza are facing starvation and destitution, a figure that could exceed 640,000 by the end of September.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), supported by various UN agencies, has officially declared a famine in Gaza City for the first time. Approximately 514,000 people, nearly a quarter of Gaza’s population, are currently experiencing famine, with projections indicating that this number may rise to 641,000 soon. In reaction, Israel has requested the IPC to retract its report, describing it as flawed and accusing it of methodological breaches. The Israeli Foreign Ministry is pushing for an urgent review, threatening to influence IPC funding if a revised report is not released.
On August 27, 2025, the UN Security Council convened, with 14 of 15 members, excluding the U.S., labeling the famine a “man-made crisis” and condemning starvation as a weapon of war. They called for an unconditional ceasefire, humanitarian aid increases, and removal of aid delivery restrictions.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed profound concern, with Save the Children’s chief stating that the famine is a “man-made” catastrophe, particularly affecting children. The international community is urging immediate action to address the crisis, emphasizing the need for essential aid delivery and a sustainable ceasefire to avert further loss of life.
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