Parts of Gaza are currently facing a severe food crisis that could escalate further due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, according to a senior United Nations official.
Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP), expressed deep concern about the situation in northern Gaza during an interview on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday. McCain stated, "Whenever conflicts like this occur, and emotions run high, famine becomes a real risk." She described a "full-blown famine" in the north that is spreading southward.
McCain clarified that the UN or any other agency has not formally declared a famine, but the term accurately describes the conditions in the northern region. She emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate more aid delivery.
Phillipe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), accused Israel of obstructing humanitarian access to Gaza and increasing attacks on humanitarian workers and convoys when access is granted. He cited numerous incidents of violence and delays at checkpoints, creating fear among humanitarian teams.
Several aid organizations have warned of "catastrophic" hunger levels in Gaza. Israel's blockade at the start of the war severely limited food and supplies, and although border crossings have since opened, the aid has not been sufficient to meet the growing need.
Some aid groups have criticized Israel for not authorizing enough aid deliveries, and even when permission is granted, heavy fighting makes it challenging to distribute aid effectively. Israel has denied these accusations, blaming logistical challenges created by the UN and its partners, and accusing Hamas of stealing aid meant for civilians.
Despite these challenges, more aid has recently entered Gaza, particularly through the south. On April 9, a record 468 humanitarian aid trucks entered Gaza, and the IDF opened the Erez Crossing for aid deliveries to the north for the first time since the war began.
A report from the U.N.-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification initiative in March warned of an "imminent" famine in northern Gaza by the end of May. The report projected that half of Gaza's population could be experiencing famine levels of hunger by mid-July.
USAID Administrator Samantha Power testified in March that famine was "credible" in parts of Gaza based on the IPC initiative's analysis.
Meanwhile, talks between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire have stalled. Hamas is demanding a written commitment from Israel for a comprehensive ceasefire and an end to the war, which Israel has refused.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on both sides, with thousands killed and injured since October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise terrorist attack in Israel.