Declaration of Famine in Gaza
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a UN-backed system, has declared famine in Gaza, marking the fifth such declaration in its 20-year history. Previous instances include Somalia (2011), South Sudan (2017 and 2020), and Sudan (2024).
Current Situation in Gaza
- The famine is described as entirely man-made and linked to the ongoing conflict caused by Israel's military actions.
International Response
- Over 100 international aid organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, Oxfam, and Amnesty International, have accused Israel of deliberately obstructing aid.
Ongoing Conflict and Settler Expansion
- Despite international condemnation, Israel approved 3,400 new settler homes in the occupied West Bank.
- The expansion in West Bank, where Hamas has no presence, violates Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Global Diplomatic Stances
- Countries like France, the UK, Canada, and Australia plan to recognize a State of Palestine.
- The United States, holding significant influence over Israel, remains silent on the famine declaration and shows tacit support for the settler expansion.