Geneva, December 21, 2025 – The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that a dire humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the Gaza Strip, with projections indicating over 100,000 children and 37,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women will likely suffer acute malnutrition through April of next year.
Worsening Food Insecurity
These projections follow the release of a report by UN agencies utilizing the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). The IPC report indicates that at least 1.6 million people in Gaza are currently experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity, a situation expected to persist through mid-April 2026.
According to Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the progress made in mitigating famine is extremely fragile. This vulnerability is attributed to widespread infrastructure destruction, the collapse of local livelihoods and food production, and ongoing restrictions impacting humanitarian operations.
Potential for Famine
The situation could deteriorate further. Ghebreyesus warned that, should the conflict resume or humanitarian aid be halted, the entire Gaza Strip is at risk of famine by mid-April 2026. He communicated these concerns in a post on X, emphasizing the precariousness of the current situation.
The WHO has stated that essential medical supplies, equipment, and prefabricated hospital structures are urgently needed. However, access to these resources is hampered by complex entry procedures and restrictions, with many items classified as potentially “dual-use.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IPC?
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) is a set of tools used by UN agencies to determine the severity of food insecurity in a given area.
How many people are affected by food insecurity in Gaza?
At least 1.6 million people in Gaza are facing high levels of acute food insecurity through mid-April 2026, according to the IPC report.
What is the WHO calling for?
The WHO is calling for the urgent and expedited approval and entry of essential medical supplies, equipment, and prefabricated hospital structures to scale up life-saving services and expand access to care.
Given the severity of the projected malnutrition crisis and the fragility of the current situation, what steps might international organizations take to prevent the worst-case scenario of widespread famine?