Islamabad – The United Nations has officially declared famine in Gaza, marking the first-ever such declaration in the Middle East. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) confirmed that at least half a million people are enduring “catastrophic” hunger, with the number expected to rise to more than 640,000 in the coming weeks if conditions remain unchanged.
A Man-Made Disaster
According to UN data, famine thresholds have been met: over 20% of households face extreme shortages, child malnutrition rates exceed 30%, and deaths linked to hunger and disease are rising. The Gaza Governorate has been hit hardest, with other areas like Deir el-Balah and Khan Younis also on the brink.
Experts stress this famine is not caused by natural disaster but by prolonged conflict, restricted aid, destroyed agriculture, and collapsed infrastructure. Nearly all cropland has been damaged, food markets have disintegrated, and fuel scarcity prevents cooking or refrigeration. In July, over 12,000 children were diagnosed with acute malnutrition, six times higher than earlier this year, while maternal malnutrition has tripled.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the situation as a “man-made catastrophe,” calling for immediate humanitarian access. Emergency relief agencies warn that without major intervention, mortality rates will rise sharply in the coming weeks.
Divided Responses and Humanitarian Urgency
Israel has dismissed the UN findings, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling the famine declaration “false.” Authorities cite over 100,000 aid trucks sent to Gaza and lower food prices in some markets. However, humanitarian groups argue that aid remains insufficient, unevenly distributed, and often inaccessible, with some civilians killed while trying to collect supplies.
International responses reflect deep divides. Protests have erupted worldwide, particularly in Australia, where demonstrators accused Israel of committing genocide. In the US, lawmakers across the spectrum, from Bernie Sanders to Marjorie Taylor Greene, have urged suspension of military aid to Israel. Human rights groups and several governments warn that the famine could amount to a war crime under international law.
Amid the crisis, local initiatives such as the Gaza Soup Kitchen continue to feed thousands daily, despite dwindling resources and constant risks. These community-led efforts highlight resilience but cannot replace the scale of aid needed.
Background and Global Stakes
The famine is rooted in the aftermath of the Gaza war that began following the October 7, 2023 attacks. Months of bombardment, blockade, and displacement have left hospitals overwhelmed, water scarce, and infrastructure shattered. By early 2025, nearly all essential systems had collapsed, setting the stage for today’s catastrophe.
While Israel points to increased aid entry since May, humanitarian corridors remain insecure, and aid convoys face repeated delays. Critics argue that without a ceasefire and neutral distribution mechanisms, relief cannot reach those most at risk.
A Test of Global Responsibility
The UN declaration is both historic and alarming, signaling that Gaza’s crisis is no longer looming, it is already here. For the international community, the famine poses a moral and political test. Without urgent, coordinated action, thousands more, especially children will succumb to starvation and preventable disease in the weeks ahead.
