Gaza no longer in famine but hunger levels remain critical, UN says

The UN announced on Friday that the famine in Gaza has ended due to increased humanitarian aid deliveries, though critical hunger levels persist. While no areas are currently classified as experiencing famine, the entire Gaza Strip is still considered an emergency situation, with a large portion of the population facing crisis levels of hunger. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) noted improvements in food security since August 2025, following an October ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that led to eased restrictions on aid entry. However, the UN warns that the situation remains fragile, with potential for renewed famine if the ceasefire breaks down, especially as 1.6 million people are expected to face crisis levels of hunger in the coming months. Despite the improved situation, one in eight people in Gaza still face food shortages, exacerbated by winter flooding and inadequate housing.

Heavy rains in the Gaza Strip are worsening the already dire conditions for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians. UN agencies report that severe flooding has damaged or destroyed shelters and belongings, affecting an estimated 55,000 families. A Unicef spokesperson expressed concern about hypothermia and illness among children living in tents and makeshift shelters, with temperatures dropping to 7-8C at night. Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reports deaths from hypothermia and building collapses due to the weather. While aid deliveries have increased since the ceasefire, the UN says it is still insufficient to meet the needs of those affected.