UNICEF: Devastating rate of child malnutrition in Gaza Strip in August surpasses previous record

UNICEF: Devastating rate of child malnutrition in Gaza Strip in August surpasses previous record
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According to a news and press release from UNICEF on ReliefWeb, the rate of child malnutrition in the Gaza Strip has reached a devastating level. In August 2025, the percentage of children identified as acutely malnourished rose to 13.5%, an increase from the 8.3% record set in July.

In Gaza City, where famine was officially confirmed in July, the situation is even more dire, with 19% of children admitted for treatment suffering from malnutrition. The report notes that a total of 12,800 children were identified as acutely malnourished in August. However, due to escalating military operations, several outpatient treatment centers have been forced to close, which has reduced screening capacity and left many children vulnerable. The deadliest form of malnutrition, severe acute malnutrition (SAM), has also seen a sharp increase, with 23% of children admitted for treatment in August suffering from it, compared to 12% six months earlier.

UNICEF is urgently calling for a ceasefire and for all parties to respect international law to ensure the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure. The organization emphasized the need for more food aid and nutrition supplies, as well as the rehabilitation of the health system, to prevent further suffering and the worst outcomes of the famine.