A United Nations-backed panel has declared famine in northern Gaza, warning that over half a million people are on the brink of starvation due to rising hunger. The declaration comes nearly two years into an armed conflict with Israel, which has limited the flow of food and aid into the region.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) system, developed by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, categorizes hunger on a five-phase scale. A location is considered in “famine” when three criteria are met: at least 20% of households face extreme food scarcity, at least 30% of children under five suffer from acute malnutrition, and at least two adults die per day due to non-trauma causes.
Gaza City and surrounding areas are currently experiencing a Phase 5 famine, the highest level of acute food insecurity. However, a famine declaration can only be made by government institutions, United Nations upper leadership, and other high-level representatives.
Experts warn that starvation can occur long before famine is declared, and that time is running short to take action in Gaza. FEWS NET and IPC say that if hostilities cease and aid workers are granted full access, famine in Gaza can be alleviated.
The World Food Programme’s Director of Food Security and Nutrition Analysis noted that a famine declaration means documentation of widespread starvation, illness, and mortality. The IPC analysis says that Gaza is experiencing a Phase 5 famine, but notes that its methods remain consistent with its standard project-wide practices despite lacking an operational presence in the region.
Source: https://www.npr.org/sections/goats-and-soda/2025/08/22/g-s1-84600/famine-is-declared-in-gaza-what-does-it-take-to-make-this-pronouncement