What's happened
Recent reports indicate that famine has been avoided in Gaza following improved aid access since October, but the situation remains fragile. The UN warns that without sustained humanitarian and commercial inflows, the entire territory could face famine by mid-2026, with thousands of children at risk of malnutrition.
What's behind the headline?
The recent improvement in Gaza’s food security, driven by a ceasefire and increased aid, masks the underlying fragility of the situation. The conflicting narratives—Israel’s claim of sufficient aid versus aid agencies’ warnings of ongoing shortages—highlight the political stakes. Israel disputes the famine reports, asserting aid flows are adequate, yet independent assessments show that access remains inconsistent and aid is not reaching all in need. The risk of famine persists if hostilities resume or aid flows are further restricted. The situation underscores how geopolitical tensions directly impact humanitarian outcomes, with the potential for a renewed crisis if current conditions deteriorate. The international community must prioritize sustained, unobstructed aid to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Gaza’s famine has been averted but warns of ongoing risks, citing the IPC’s assessment of a fragile situation. Reuters emphasizes the conflicting claims between Israel and aid agencies, with Israel disputing famine reports and asserting aid flows are sufficient. The New York Times highlights the ongoing high levels of food insecurity, with over 1.6 million people affected and more than 100,000 facing catastrophic conditions. The Independent notes that despite some improvements, displacement, poor sanitation, and limited access continue to exacerbate hunger. AP News echoes these concerns, stressing the importance of expanded aid and the risks posed by fluctuating access. Overall, the sources reveal a complex picture of progress shadowed by persistent vulnerabilities and political disputes.
How we got here
The Gaza Strip has faced recurring food crises amid ongoing conflict, blockades, and economic hardship. Previous assessments confirmed famine conditions in 2011, 2017, 2020, and 2024. The current situation has been influenced by a fragile ceasefire, international aid efforts, and restrictions on aid delivery, which have fluctuated over the past year.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s the Latest on Middle East Tensions and International Involvement?
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has drawn global attention, with recent developments involving international forces, diplomatic talks, and humanitarian concerns. People are asking about the US plans, regional reactions, and the current state of peace efforts. Below, we answer some of the most common questions to keep you informed on this complex situation.
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Is Gaza's Food Crisis Worsening or Improving?
Gaza's food situation remains a critical concern amid ongoing conflict and aid challenges. While recent reports suggest some improvements, the overall outlook is fragile and raises questions about future food security. How is the situation evolving, and what are the risks ahead? Below, we explore key questions about Gaza's food crisis, aid efforts, and what experts are saying about the future.
More on these topics
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, also known as IPC scale, is a tool for improving food security analysis and decision-making.