Famine Confirmed in Gaza Amidst Devastating Conflict and Calls for Media Access
Famine has been officially confirmed in Gaza Governorate, marking the first famine in the Middle East amid a devastating conflict that has killed over 62,000 Palestinians.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) warns that catastrophic conditions will soon spread across Gaza, with millions facing starvation and acute malnutrition, Anadolu Agency reported. At the same time, international calls grow for Israel to allow independent media access to the besieged territory, highlighting the critical need for transparency amid ongoing violence and humanitarian collapse.
After 22 months of conflict, the IPC confirmed on August 15, 2025, that famine (IPC Phase 5) exists in Gaza Governorate, with projections showing it will spread to Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis within weeks. Nearly one-third of Gaza’s population—641,000 people—are expected to face catastrophic conditions by late September, while 58% remain in Emergency (IPC Phase 4). Acute malnutrition is rising sharply, with an estimated 132,000 children under five expected to suffer from malnutrition by mid-2026, including over 41,000 severe cases.
The crisis stems from collapsed food systems, ongoing violence, and halted aid deliveries. Food prices have soared, and 80% of households report safety risks when seeking food. The Famine Review Committee called the catastrophe “entirely man-made,” warning that any delay in aid will cause unacceptable loss of life.
Since October 2023, Israeli military operations have killed over 62,000 Palestinians, with 271 deaths linked to malnutrition, including 112 children. The conflict began with a Hamas attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 civilians and led to hostage-taking.
Meanwhile, the Media Freedom Coalition, representing 27 countries, urged Israel to permit independent foreign journalists into Gaza. The coalition condemned attacks on media workers—242 Palestinian journalists have been killed—and stressed the need for safe, free press access to shed light on the crisis. Israel has mostly barred international media, allowing only rare guided tours.
This dual crisis of famine and restricted information underscores the urgent need for ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and press freedom to address one of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies.
