The Gaza Strip, already under Israeli blockade and attacks, saw eight more Palestinians die from hunger in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of hunger-related deaths to 281, Palestinian authorities said Saturday.
Munir el-Bursh, general director of the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, told reporters that the deaths are a direct result of extreme food shortages and malnutrition imposed by Israeli restrictions.
“Since October 7, 2023, hunger-related deaths in Gaza have risen to 281, including 114 children,” Bursh said.
Indicator | Number / % | Notes |
---|---|---|
Hunger-related deaths | 281 | Includes 114 children |
Population of Gaza | 2,300,000 | Approximate total population |
People displaced | 2,000,000 | Many displaced multiple times |
Famine severity | Level 5 | Highest level per IPC, UN-supported |
Destroyed infrastructure | 88% | Nearly 9/10 of Gaza destroyed by Israel |
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), supported by the United Nations, reported on Aug. 15, 2025, that Gaza is experiencing famine conditions at the highest level, 5. According to IPC, over half a million people are facing starvation, poverty, and life-threatening conditions following nearly two years of relentless conflict.
Israeli attacks and strict restrictions on humanitarian aid have left the population of approximately 2.3 million in Gaza in dire conditions, with severe shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies, and hygiene products. The blockade and repeated displacement orders have forced up to 2 million people to flee their homes, many multiple times.
Children are among the most affected. Displaced Palestinians survive in makeshift tents or overcrowded facilities, often lacking even basic sanitation, increasing the risk of infectious diseases. Israeli military operations continue to target civilian shelters and infrastructure daily.