Famine is gripping Gaza, with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) revealing that 500,000 people—about 25% of the population—are experiencing starvation due to what is deemed a "man-made" crisis. The IPC report highlights extreme food shortages, widespread malnutrition among children, and rising mortality rates attributed to starvation and diseases linked to malnutrition.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denies the existence of famine, blaming aid organizations for the food shortages. In contrast, the IPC asserts that access to food has been severely restricted since the conflict escalated, particularly following the war's onset in October 2023.
Compounding the issue, a near-total block on food entering Gaza was initiated in March 2025, affecting supply chains and humanitarian efforts. Although some aid has recently been allowed back in at reduced levels, the aid distribution system has been shifted to a new controversial framework that poses significant challenges for residents needing food assistance.
In the absence of adequate help, desperate Palestinians often face deadly conditions while attempting to access aid. An alarming number of civilians have been killed, with UN reports indicating nearly 1,000 deaths occurring in the vicinity of aid distribution points since late May.
While some aid has recently entered Gaza, prices remain prohibitively high for many. The UN estimates about 600 trucks are necessary daily to meet basic needs, yet deliveries are far below that figure.
Both Israel and the IPC have traded accusations concerning the validity of the humanitarian data, with the Israeli government labeling the IPC's findings as biased and fabricated. The situation has drawn widespread condemnation and calls for immediate intervention from international organizations and world leaders.
As Israel prepares for a possible ground invasion of Gaza City, concerns are growing about the humanitarian fallout, especially for vulnerable populations unsheltered by ongoing conflict.
