A recent UN report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to the near-total collapse of the local food system. The report indicated that approximately 1.95 million people, or 93% of Gaza’s population, face varying levels of food insecurity, with 244,000 in “catastrophe” phase (IPC Phase 5), the most severe stage preceding famine.
According to the report that issued in collaboration with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the UN Satellite Centre (UNOSAT), the report expected that by September 2025, the number of people in a catastrophic situation could rise to 470,000, increasing the risk of widespread famine.
The agricultural sector has collapsed, with only 4.6% of arable land remaining viable, and over 80% of cultivated areas damaged due to ongoing Israeli attacks. Additionally, 71.2% of agricultural greenhouses and 82.8% of wells have been affected, crippling local food production.
Before the war began in October 2023, agriculture accounted for 10% of Gaza’s economy and supported over half a million livelihoods. However, repeated attacks and infrastructure targeting have halted local food production, leading to soaring unemployment and poverty, and increased reliance on heavily restricted humanitarian aid. FAO estimates agricultural losses at over $2 billion, with reconstruction costs around $4.2 billion.
Beth Bechdol, FAO Deputy Director-General, stated that the devastation extends beyond infrastructure to a “complete collapse of the food and agricultural system and livelihoods,” emphasizing that recovery will require significant investments and long-term commitment. Amid ongoing displacement, food shortages, and lack of basic services for over two million Palestinians, coupled with Israeli restrictions on humanitarian aid, the UN warns of an imminent famine, marking one of the world’s most severe food crises.
