Gaza No Longer in Famine, but Hunger Levels Remain Critical, UN Says

 

The United Nations has stated that Gaza is no longer officially classified as being in a state of famine, but it has warned that hunger levels across the territory remain dangerously high. According to recent UN assessments, while some limited improvements have been observed due to increased humanitarian aid, the overall food situation is still critical and fragile.

For months, Gaza faced extreme food shortages caused by ongoing conflict, restricted access to supplies, damaged infrastructure, and mass displacement. Earlier warnings from international agencies suggested that famine conditions were imminent or already underway, especially in northern Gaza. However, the UN now says that recent increases in food deliveries and humanitarian access have helped prevent the worst-case scenario from continuing.

Despite this change in classification, the UN emphasises that the situation is far from normal. Millions of people in Gaza are still struggling to find enough food each day. Many families are surviving on one small meal or less, and malnutrition rates remain alarmingly high, particularly among children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Aid agencies report that acute hunger is still widespread and could quickly worsen if assistance is interrupted.

UN officials stress that “no longer in famine” does not mean people are food secure. Instead, it reflects a slight easing from catastrophic levels to what experts describe as an ongoing humanitarian emergency. Clean water shortages, lack of cooking fuel, and destroyed food markets continue to limit people’s ability to prepare meals, even when food aid is available.

Humanitarian organisations also warn that access to Gaza remains unpredictable. Border crossings can close suddenly, convoys face delays, and security concerns often restrict movement. These challenges make it difficult to deliver aid consistently and at the scale required to meet the population’s needs. The UN has called for sustained and unrestricted humanitarian access to prevent hunger levels from rising again.

Children remain among the most vulnerable. Doctors and aid workers report high levels of stunting, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies. Long-term hunger can have lifelong effects on physical growth, learning ability, and overall health. The UN has urged the international community to prioritise nutrition programmes alongside emergency food aid.

The UN also highlighted the need for a lasting ceasefire to stabilise food security in Gaza. Without peace, recovery efforts cannot take hold, and the risk of renewed famine remains high. Rebuilding agriculture, markets, and supply chains will take time and requires sustained international support.

In conclusion, while Gaza may no longer meet the technical definition of famine, the reality on the ground remains severe. Hunger is still a daily struggle for millions, and any reduction in aid or access could reverse recent gains. The UN warns that continued global attention and action are essential to prevent another humanitarian disaster from unfolding.