Nearly 71,000 children under the age of five are expected to be acutely malnourished over the next 11 months (April 2025-March 2026). Of these, 14,100 cases are expected to be severe. In addition, nearly 17,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women also require treatment for acute malnutrition during this period.

Between 1 April and 10 May, acute malnutrition (AMN) was at Alert and Serious levels (IPC AMN Phase 2 and 3). However, experience has shown that acute malnutrition can worsen rapidly, and latest data indicate a deteriorating trend that is expected to persist. Consequently, acute malnutrition in North Gaza, Gaza and Rafah governorates will likely reach Critical levels (IPC AMN Phase 4) between 11 May and end of September. 

With the announced expansion of military operations throughout the Gaza Strip, the persistent inability of humanitarian agencies to access populations in dire need, an anticipated escalation in hostilities, and the continued mass displacement of people, the risk of Famine in the Gaza Strip is not just possible- It is increasingly likely. 

Only an immediate and sustained cessation of hostilities and the resumption of humanitarian aid delivery can prevent a descent into Famine

• End Hostilities: An immediate, unconditional, and sustained ceasefire is critical to reducing the risk of Famine and reversing the catastrophic levels of human suffering.
• Ensure Humanitarian Access: Unhindered, safe, stable and sustained humanitarian access must be guaranteed to deliver lifesaving, multi-sectoral assistance and services at scale. This includes food, health care, water and sanitation (WASH), essential non-food items, fuel and cooking gas.
• Protect aid workers, civilians and civilian infrastructure: Protect civilians and aid workers so they can deliver humanitarian assistance unimpeded. Protect and restore infrastructure critical for survival and for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and services, and regular functioning of food, health, water and sanitation systems.
• Food assistance alone will not prevent Famine. Provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance through multi-sectoral, integrated interventions, including food, nutrition, health, WASH, and livelihoods assistance.
• Restore at scale commercial supply, essential services, market systems and local production.