GAZA CITY: The world's leading authority on food crises has officially declared that Gaza City is experiencing famine, marking the first time such a designation has been made in the Middle East.

This dire situation is attributed to ongoing conflict and Israel's restrictions on humanitarian aid.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), which assesses global food security situations, reports that severe hunger conditions have been confirmed in Gaza City, home to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.

If a ceasefire and adequate aid are not implemented, the IPC warns that this famine could spread south to Deir Al-Balah and Khan Younis by the end of next month.

The declaration comes after persistent warnings from humanitarian organizations that Israel's blockade and military operations have caused widespread starvation among Palestinian civilians, particularly children.

Despite these claims, Israeli authorities deny the existence of a hunger crisis in Gaza.

This grim development is likely to intensify international pressure on Israel as it continues its military efforts against Hamas following the militant group's October 7 attack.

According to the IPC report, more than half a million people in Gaza are now facing catastrophic levels of hunger, with many at risk of malnutrition-related deaths.

The United Nations Secretary-General has described the situation as a 'man-made disaster' and called for an immediate ceasefire.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denies the presence of hunger in Gaza, stating that reports of starvation are lies promoted by Hamas.

In response to mounting public pressure, Israel has recently allowed some humanitarian aid into the region but experts argue that the quantities remain insufficient to meet the territory's needs.

The IPC report emphasizes that a full third of Gaza's population could face extreme hunger levels by September if no significant improvements in aid delivery occur.

Formal famine determinations are rare and typically involve three key criteria: widespread food deprivation, high rates of acute malnutrition among children, and elevated mortality rates due to starvation or related conditions.

The IPC has verified that all these criteria have been met in Gaza City.

The situation in Gaza City is particularly dire, with neighborhoods almost completely destroyed by Israeli bombardments and ground operations.

Many residents are witnessing the emaciation of their loved ones, as food prices soar and access to basic necessities dwindles.

Doctors report a significant increase in malnourished patients, further exacerbating the risks posed by any planned military offensives.

The international community is now urged to act swiftly to prevent further deterioration in Gaza's humanitarian crisis.