Food security experts warn Gaza is at critical risk of famine if Israel doesnt end its blockade

Published: Monday, May 12, 2025 at 12:55 pm

Gaza on Brink of Famine: Experts Warn of Catastrophic Hunger Amidst Blockade

Food security experts are sounding the alarm: Gaza is teetering on the edge of famine. A new report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a leading authority on hunger crises, paints a grim picture, warning that nearly half a million Palestinians face possible starvation. The report highlights that the ongoing Israeli blockade and military campaign are the primary drivers of this crisis.

The situation is dire. Israel has restricted the entry of essential supplies, including food, medicine, and shelter, for the past ten weeks. This, coupled with the destruction of agricultural infrastructure and the collapse of food production within Gaza, has left the population almost entirely reliant on outside aid. Communal kitchens, the last remaining source of food for many, are shutting down due to lack of supplies. People are waiting for hours in line, often leaving empty-handed.

The IPC report indicates that the first threshold for famine – 20% of households experiencing extreme food shortages – has already been met. The report also highlights that over a million people are experiencing emergency levels of hunger. Experts warn that if the blockade and military campaign continue, the situation will deteriorate further, leading to widespread disease, malnutrition, and death.

Israel maintains the blockade is necessary to pressure Hamas to release hostages and to prevent aid from being diverted. The United States is working on a new aid distribution system, but the UN has expressed concerns, citing potential political manipulation and the inability of the proposed system to meet the massive needs of the population.

BNN's Perspective: The situation in Gaza is undeniably critical. While Israel has a right to defend itself and address security concerns, the humanitarian consequences of the blockade are devastating. A balance must be struck between security needs and the fundamental right of civilians to access food and essential supplies. The international community must work to ensure that aid reaches those in need and that a sustainable solution is found to prevent further suffering.

Keywords: Gaza, famine, Israel, blockade, food security, hunger, starvation, humanitarian crisis, aid, Hamas, military campaign, malnutrition, Palestinians, Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, IPC, United Nations, Benjamin Netanyahu, starvation as a weapon of war, aid distribution, humanitarian access.

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