Edith Hejberg
Data suggests famine thresholds for food consumption have been met in most of the territory, especially in Gaza City.
A UN-supported food security group has issued its starkest alert yet, warning that “the worst-case scenario of famine” is unfolding in Gaza. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) says conflict, mass displacement, and a collapse in access to essentials have driven hunger and disease to alarming levels.
Starvation and Disease Driving Deaths
The IPC reports mounting evidence of widespread starvation, malnutrition, and illness, all contributing to a sharp rise in hunger-related deaths.
While the alert stops short of formally declaring famine, the group calls for an urgent reassessment of the crisis.
Thousands of Malnourished Children
Between April and mid-July, more than 20,000 children in Gaza were treated for acute malnutrition, with over 3,000 in severe condition.
Data suggests Data suggests famine thresholds for food consumption have been met in most of the territory, especially in Gaza City. the territory, especially in Gaza City.
Entire Population at Risk
Earlier this year, the IPC warned that Gaza’s entire population faced “high levels of acute food insecurity” and was at high risk of famine.
The situation has since worsened, with critical shortages in food, clean water, and medical supplies.
U.S. Breaks Ranks with Israeli Narrative
In one of his strongest statements on the crisis, U.S. President Donald Trump said there is “real starvation” in Gaza, contradicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s denial of such conditions.
Trump vowed the U.S. would become more involved.
Plans for U.S.-Backed Food Centers
Trump announced plans to establish “food centers” in Gaza to distribute aid.
Vice President JD Vance echoed the urgency, describing images of starving children as “heartbreaking” and urging Israel to allow more humanitarian supplies into the enclave.
Israel Eases Some Restrictions — but Critics Say It’s Not Enough
Israel recently introduced a daily “tactical pause” in certain areas of Gaza to facilitate aid delivery and has permitted some foreign airdrops.
However, humanitarian groups argue these efforts are insufficient and logistically dangerous.
Death Toll Tops 60,000
Gaza’s health ministry says over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s military campaign began nearly two years ago.
The majority of deaths, according to the UN and Gaza authorities, are women and children though Israel disputes these figures.
Accusations of Genocide from Within Israel
For the first time, two leading Israeli human rights groups, B’Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights Israel, have accused their own government of committing genocide in Gaza. They cite deliberate destruction of the health system and statements from senior officials as evidence.
A Crisis with No Clear End in Sight
Despite mounting international pressure, ceasefire talks have stalled. With starvation worsening, casualties climbing, and political divisions deepening, the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza shows no signs of easing without significant changes on the ground.
