UN Warns of Catastrophic Hunger in Gaza

The United Nations has issued a dire warning regarding a looming humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, as aid deliveries have significantly decreased. This alarming development exacerbates an already critical food insecurity situation for the besieged population, according to an Al Jazeera report published on June 13, 2024.

www.aljazeera.com reported, UN officials stated that the reduction in aid access has become "significantly more restrictive" since early May, particularly following the closure of the Rafah crossing. Reuters reported on June 12, 2024, that this has severely hampered the flow of essential supplies into the Strip.

The ongoing conflict and persistent challenges in distributing vital supplies within Gaza are key factors contributing to the crisis. The Associated Press noted on June 10, 2024, that security concerns and logistical hurdles continue to impede humanitarian operations.

www.aljazeera.com noted, This drastic drop in aid deliveries pushes hundreds of thousands of people closer to famine conditions, especially in northern Gaza. The World Food Programme (WFP) has repeatedly warned that the entire population faces emergency levels of food insecurity, as reported by their recent assessments.

International agencies are urgently calling for unimpeded access for humanitarian aid and a sustained ceasefire to prevent widespread starvation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the critical need for immediate action to avert further suffering, according to statements released by his office.

www.aljazeera.com reported, The situation demands immediate global attention to ensure that life-saving food, water, and medical supplies reach those in desperate need. UNICEF has highlighted the severe impact on children, with many already suffering from acute malnutrition, as detailed in their latest reports.

• Escalating Food Insecurity Levels: The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated to an extreme level, with the entire population experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report from March 2024, nearly all residents are in IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) or worse, with over 1.1 million people facing IPC Phase 5 (Catastrophe/Famine), particularly in northern Gaza. This represents the highest share of people facing catastrophic hunger ever recorded.
• Critical Aid Delivery Challenges: The primary reason for the plummeting aid deliveries is the closure of the Rafah crossing since early May and severe restrictions at other entry points like Kerem Shalom. OCHA (UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) reported in its June 2024 updates that the average number of aid trucks entering Gaza daily has drastically fallen, far below the minimum required to meet basic needs. Israeli authorities cite security concerns and Hamas's alleged diversion of aid, while UN agencies blame Israeli restrictions and the breakdown of law and order.
• Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Children, pregnant and lactating women, and the elderly are disproportionately affected by the food crisis. UNICEF warned in May 2024 that over 8,000 children under five in Gaza have been diagnosed and treated for acute malnutrition, with at least 28 children dying from malnutrition and dehydration in northern Gaza. The lack of clean water and sanitation further exacerbates health risks, leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases.
• International Calls for Action: Numerous international bodies and governments have called for an immediate and sustained ceasefire, coupled with unimpeded humanitarian access. The European Union and the United States have urged Israel to open more crossings and ensure the safety of aid workers. However, diplomatic efforts have yet to yield a significant improvement in the flow of aid, as reported by The Guardian in recent weeks.
• Background of the Conflict: The current crisis stems from the ongoing conflict that intensified following the October 7, 2023, attacks. Israel's subsequent military operations in Gaza have led to widespread destruction of infrastructure, displacement of over 1.7 million people, and a severe blockade, which has crippled the economy and humanitarian response. The long-standing blockade of Gaza prior to October 7 had already weakened the territory's resilience.
• Long-Term Implications and Recovery: Beyond immediate starvation, the prolonged food insecurity will have severe long-term consequences, including stunted growth, cognitive impairment in children, and increased susceptibility to illness. Rebuilding Gaza's food systems, agricultural capacity, and infrastructure will require massive international investment and a stable political environment, a prospect that remains distant given the current hostilities, according to analysis by the Council on Foreign Relations.
• Stakeholder Positions: Israel maintains that it facilitates aid and blames Hamas for the crisis, alleging aid diversion and using civilian infrastructure for military purposes. Hamas, meanwhile, accuses Israel of deliberately starving the population. Egypt has kept its Rafah crossing largely closed, citing security concerns and disagreements over its management. International donors are increasingly frustrated by the inability to deliver aid effectively, as noted by various diplomatic sources.