Statement on Famine Confirmation in Gaza

WASHINGTON, D.C. – InterAction released the following statement after the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report confirmed that famine is occurring in Gaza Governate.

“Today’s confirmation of famine in parts of Gaza signals a devastating escalation in a desperate situation. Over half a million children, women, and men face starvation and death from lack of food—a crisis that was completely avoidable and can be lessened only if action is taken immediately.

“With one million more people experiencing dire levels of food insecurity, thousands more could die from wholly preventable causes—especially children weakened from persistent hunger—as famine is expected to spread to two more population centers.

“To meet this urgent crisis, Gaza must be flooded with assistance that reaches the most vulnerable. Humanitarian workers need safe, sustained, and large-scale access to populations at risk to deliver assistance which is already positioned at the borders. Airdrops and small-scale convoys are insufficient.

“We know what can save lives: open multiple land crossings; accelerate the delivery of food, water, and lifesaving medical supplies; and restore the flow of adequate amounts of fuel.

“Every hour this assistance is denied pushes more families beyond the point of survival.”

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InterAction unites and amplifies the voices of America’s leading humanitarian and development organizations committed to creating a safer, more prosperous world. Its members deliver lifesaving aid, protect vulnerable families, and advance human dignity around the globe.

For press inquiries, please contact Mitch McQuate at mmcquate@interaction.org or (202) 403-7253.