Famine Declaration in Gaza
Overview
The United Nations declared an official famine in Gaza on August 22, 2025, marking the first such occurrence in West Asia. Approximately 500,000 people are facing severe hunger, described as "catastrophic" by experts.
Contributing Factors
- Systematic Obstruction: U.N. aid chief attributed the famine to a blockade by Israel preventing food from reaching Gaza.
- Local Food System Collapse: 98% of cropland is either damaged or inaccessible, livestock decimated, and fishing banned.
- Health System Deterioration: Limited access to safe drinking water and hygiene, further exacerbating the crisis.
Geographical Impact
- The famine is confirmed in Gaza Governorate and expected to expand to Deir el-Balah and Khan Yunis, potentially affecting two-thirds of the territory.
Statistics and Projections
- Currently, over 500,000 people face dire conditions, expected to rise to 641,000 by September's end, nearly a third of the population.
- The IPC report highlights the conflict's escalation and humanitarian supply restrictions as major drivers.
Definitions and Classifications
- The famine classification by the IPC requires:
- 20% of households with extreme food scarcity.
- 30% of children under five acutely malnourished.
- Two deaths per 10,000 people daily due to starvation or malnutrition-related causes.
