As the conflict in Gaza enters its second year, the risk of famine across the region has reached critical levels, with more people expected to fall into severe hunger as winter approaches. According to a new report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), 1.84 million people in Gaza are now facing extreme levels of acute food insecurity, driven by ongoing hostilities, the destruction of livelihoods, and the collapse of local food production systems.
The conflict has displaced nearly 2 million people and destroyed 70% of crop fields, decimating Gaza's ability to feed its population. Health services are overwhelmed, humanitarian access is severely restricted, and commercial activities have come to a standstill. The report reveals that acute malnutrition has skyrocketed, with levels ten times higher than before the escalation of violence, highlighting the dire consequences of the ongoing conflict on the population’s health and well-being.
While a slight reduction in the severity of food insecurity was observed between September and October 2024, this was largely due to an increase in humanitarian aid to certain regions, including North Gaza, Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, and Khan Younis. However, this minor improvement is expected to be short-lived as the conflict continues to escalate. The IPC report predicts that the situation will worsen in the coming months, leading to a surge in the number of people suffering from severe hunger and acute malnutrition.
According to the report, around 133,000 people, or 6% of Gaza's population, are experiencing catastrophic food insecurity, classified as IPC Phase 5 (Catastrophe). This number is expected to rise dramatically to 345,000 people, or 16% of the population, by April 2025 if the conflict continues to disrupt access to food, health services, and humanitarian aid.
As Gaza's food security continues to deteriorate, the international community faces growing pressure to address the worsening humanitarian crisis and ensure that vital aid reaches those in desperate need.
