The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC)—a UN-backed body—has officially classified northern Gaza as experiencing famine (IPC Phase 5). This marks the first famine ever declared in the Middle East and underscores the severity of the crisis.
Over 500,000 people are trapped in famine conditions, and the number may rise to 641,000 by the end of September, with 1 million more facing emergency-level hunger.
“Today, the world bears witness to the devastating reality that Gaza is facing a man-made famine. This declaration should shock the conscience of the world,” stated Ahmed Shehata, CEO of Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA).
This is not the result of a natural disaster, but of conditions that have deliberately deprived families of food, water, and the most basic necessities for survival. Although most Palestinians reside just a few miles away from warehouses filled with food aid, access to lifesaving aid and food remain blocked from entering.
“As humanitarians, we at IRUSA cannot remain silent in the face of this tragedy. Our teams and partners have been working tirelessly to deliver aid. This month, we were able to deliver 13,978 shelf-stable food parcels into the north and middle parts of Gaza, but as the situation continues to deteriorate, it will only become more difficult.”
Gaza’s man-made famine is a test for humanity. IRUSA is calling for the opening of humanitarian corridors so food, water, and medicine can reach families immediately. We are also calling for the protection of civilian and health facilities in line with international law.
“Famine is more than hunger—it robs people of dignity and safety. And once declared, it is already too late for many. Every day that passes without meaningful action means more lives lost, more children suffering irreparable harm, and more families torn apart.”
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Syed M. Hassan
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Islamic Relief USA, based in Alexandria, VA, is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) humanitarian organization. Its mission is to provide relief and development in a dignified manner regardless of gender, race, or religion, and works to empower individuals in their communities and give them a voice in the world. Its programs benefit millions of people each year in more than 40 countries around the world, including in the United States.
Islamic Relief USA is on the U.S. government’s Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) charity list, and it is also a signatory to the code of conduct of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.