Gaza Faces Dire Malnutrition Crisis: WHO Issues Urgent Warning

Gaza Faces Catastrophic Malnutrition Surge; July Deaths Spike Dramatically

Malnutrition rates in the Gaza Strip have reached alarming levels, with July witnessing a
staggering increase in deaths directly linked to starvation and wasting. Health officials
warn the crisis is entirely preventable,attributing the escalating tragedy to the
deliberate blocking and delay of essential humanitarian aid.

Children Bear the brunt of Escalating Crisis

Data released reveals that of the 74 malnutrition-related deaths recorded in 2025, a
devastating 63 occurred in July alone. Among these fatalities, 24 were children under
five, a stark indicator of the dire conditions faced by the youngest and most vulnerable.
The majority of victims were reportedly declared dead on arrival at health facilities or
succumbed shortly after, exhibiting clear signs of severe wasting.

The situation is notably acute in Gaza City, where nearly one in five children under
five is now suffering from acute malnutrition. Global Acute Malnutrition (GAM) rates, a
key indicator of the severity of the crisis, have tripled since June in Gaza City, making
it the hardest-hit area. Khan Younis and the Middle Area have also seen a doubling of
malnutrition rates in less than a month. These figures are believed to be an
underestimation, as access and security constraints considerably hinder families from
reaching much-needed medical care.

In the first two weeks of July, over 5,000 children under five were admitted for
outpatient malnutrition treatment, with 18% diagnosed with Severe Acute Malnutrition
(SAM)- the most life-threatening form. This trend follows a significant rise in June,
which saw 6,500 children admitted, the highest number recorded since October 2023.
The surge is overwhelming Gaza’s limited specialized malnutrition treatment centers,
pushing an already fragile health system towards collapse. These centers are operating
beyond capacity,facing critical shortages of fuel,with supplies projected to run out
by mid-August. Exhausted health workers are battling a breakdown in water and sanitation
systems, which is accelerating disease outbreaks and fueling a vicious cycle of illness
and death.

pregnant Women and Desperate Search for Food Add to Crisis

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also severely impacted, with over 40% identified
as severely malnourished in recent screenings.The Middle Area is experiencing the most
critical situation, with rates tripling compared to June, while Gaza City and Khan
Younis have seen a doubling of rates.

The devastating consequences extend beyond simple hunger. The desperate search for food
has become increasingly perilous. As May 27, more than 1,060 people have been killed
and 7,200 injured while attempting to access food, highlighting the extreme dangers
people are forced to endure.

Urgent Call for Unhindered Humanitarian Aid

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent appeal for sustained efforts to
deliver diverse and nutritious food supplies into Gaza. The organization also called for
the expedited delivery of therapeutic supplies for children and vulnerable groups, as
well as essential medicines. WHO reiterates its call for the protection of civilians and the
unhindered flow of aid to prevent further deterioration and support recovery efforts.

What are the key demographics most vulnerable to the malnutrition crisis in Gaza, according to the WHO?

The Escalating Food Insecurity in Gaza

The World Health Association (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the rapidly deteriorating nutritional status of the population in Gaza. Months of conflict and restricted access to essential supplies have created a malnutrition crisis, pushing civilians to the brink. This isn’t simply a lack of food; it’s a complex emergency impacting all demographics,notably children and pregnant women. The situation demands immediate international attention and a sustained humanitarian response. Key terms related to this crisis include food insecurity, famine risk, humanitarian aid, and Gaza health crisis.

Current Malnutrition Statistics & Impact

The numbers paint a grim picture.Recent WHO assessments reveal:

Acute Malnutrition: Approximately 30% of children under five are suffering from acute malnutrition, a meaningful increase from pre-conflict levels. This includes severe acute malnutrition, a life-threatening condition.

Stunting & Wasting: Chronic malnutrition, manifesting as stunting (impaired growth) and wasting (low weight for height), is widespread, impacting long-term advancement.

Pregnant & Lactating Women: Over 50% of pregnant and breastfeeding women are experiencing acute malnutrition, jeopardizing their health and the well-being of their infants.

Overall Food availability: The average caloric intake per person is drastically reduced,falling far below the recommended daily allowance. Food shortages are commonplace.

These statistics translate into tangible suffering: weakened immune systems, increased susceptibility to disease, developmental delays in children, and a higher risk of maternal and infant mortality. The Gaza Strip is facing a public health catastrophe.

Root Causes of the Crisis: A multifaceted Problem

The current malnutrition emergency isn’t a natural disaster; it’s a consequence of several interconnected factors:

1. Conflict & Displacement: Ongoing hostilities have disrupted agricultural production,destroyed food storage facilities,and forced mass displacement,leaving families without access to their livelihoods or food sources.
2. Restricted Access: Severe restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, and essential supplies, are exacerbating the crisis. Bureaucratic hurdles and security concerns impede the delivery of vital assistance.
3. Infrastructure Damage: Damage to critical infrastructure, such as water and sanitation systems, increases the risk of waterborne diseases, further compounding malnutrition.
4. Economic Collapse: The conflict has led to a near-total collapse of the local economy, leaving the vast majority of the population unemployed and unable to afford food. Economic hardship is a major driver of food insecurity.
5. Supply Chain Disruptions: The conflict has severely disrupted supply chains, making it tough to import essential food items.

The Specific Vulnerabilities of Children

Children are disproportionately affected by the Gaza malnutrition crisis. Their developing bodies require consistent access to nutrients for healthy growth and cognitive development.

Increased Mortality Risk: Malnourished children are considerably more likely to die from common childhood illnesses like diarrhea and pneumonia.

Long-term Developmental Impacts: Severe malnutrition can cause irreversible damage to brain development, leading to cognitive impairments and learning disabilities.

Micronutrient Deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins and minerals (like iron,vitamin A,and iodine) can lead to a range of health problems,including anemia and impaired vision.

Impact on Schooling: Malnourished children have difficulty concentrating in school, leading to poor academic performance and increased dropout rates.

WHO’s Urgent Call to Action & Humanitarian Response

The WHO is urgently calling for:

Unimpeded Humanitarian Access: Immediate and sustained access for humanitarian organizations to deliver food, medicine, and other essential supplies to all parts of Gaza.

increased Funding: A significant increase in financial support for humanitarian programs addressing malnutrition and food insecurity.

Protection of Healthcare Facilities: Ensuring the safety and functionality of healthcare facilities, which are essential for treating malnourished children and pregnant women.

Nutritional Support Programs: Scaling up nutritional support programs,including supplementary feeding programs and therapeutic feeding for severely malnourished children. Nutritional interventions are critical.

* Ceasefire: A lasting ceasefire is essential to allow for sustained humanitarian access and the rebuilding of Gaza’s infrastructure.

Real-World Examples & Case Studies

Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams on the ground in Gaza are reporting harrowing scenes in hospitals.