Gaza crisis deepens: 67% of residents face acute food insecurity

Palestinian Development Minister Samah Hamad warned on 26 July 2026 that the humanitarian and food situation in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels. According to a joint IPC, UNICEF, WFP and FAO assessment, 67% of Gaza’s population—about 1.4 million people—are experiencing acute food insecurity.

Approximately 212 000 individuals are classified in the severe "emergency" phase, including 74 000 children who urgently need therapeutic nutrition and a large number of pregnant women at heightened risk. Nutrition supplements and supplementary programmes have fallen by 50% over the past ten months, while aid deliveries currently cover only about 30% of basic household needs. The minister said Israeli restrictions on crossing points continue to block the flow of shipments, hampering relief efforts despite intensive talks with international partners.

The report highlights the immediate and longer‑term health risks for Gaza’s most vulnerable groups and calls for urgent action to lift the restrictions and scale up assistance.