Gaza: Food indicators exceed famine thresholds
Gaza is facing a severe risk of famine as food consumption and nutrition indicators have reached their worst levels since the beginning of the current conflict, according to a warning from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification.
The alert highlights that two out of the three famine thresholds have been exceeded in parts of the Gaza Strip, with the World Food Programme and UNICEF warning that time is running out to launch a comprehensive humanitarian response.
A joint press release from UN agencies stated that the ongoing conflict, the collapse of basic services, and the strict restrictions on delivering and distributing humanitarian aid imposed on the UN have all led to catastrophic food security conditions for hundreds of thousands of people across the Gaza Strip.
The UN Secretary-General said that the alert issued by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification* confirms ‘what we fear: Gaza is on the brink of famine.’
Antonio Guterres said that the facts cannot be denied and that Palestinians in Gaza are facing a humanitarian disaster of epic proportions. He added, ‘This is not a warning, but a reality unfolding before our eyes.’
He emphasized the need for the ‘trickle of aid’ to turn into an ‘ocean,’ and for food, water, medicine, and fuel to ‘flow in waves and without obstacles. This nightmare must end.’
