Fact Check: Israel is starving gazans

Fact-Check: "Israel is starving Gazans"

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that a severe humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Gaza, characterized by widespread starvation and malnutrition among its population. According to a UN-backed report, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has identified that "famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption in most of the Gaza Strip and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City." The report highlights that over 20,000 children have been admitted for acute malnutrition treatment, with a significant rise in hunger-related deaths among children under five.

The situation has been exacerbated by ongoing Israeli military operations, which have resulted in massive displacement and destruction of infrastructure. As noted in the report, "1 in 3 people [in Gaza] are going without food for days," and the proportion of households experiencing extreme hunger has doubled since April 2025. The IPC also reported that nearly 9 out of 10 households are resorting to severe coping mechanisms to obtain food, including scavenging from garbage (NPR, UN).

In addition, the World Food Programme has warned that nearly half a million people are facing famine-like conditions, and UNICEF has reported that 80% of starvation-related deaths are among children. The situation is described as "catastrophic," with calls for immediate and sustained humanitarian access to alleviate the suffering (UN, Council on Foreign Relations).

Analysis

The claim that "Israel is starving Gazans" is supported by multiple credible sources, including UN agencies and humanitarian organizations. The IPC report, which is a collaborative effort involving various UN bodies, provides a comprehensive analysis of food security in Gaza and indicates that the current conditions meet the criteria for famine. The report's findings are corroborated by data showing a sharp increase in malnutrition rates and hunger-related deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children.

While Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have denied the existence of starvation in Gaza, stating that humanitarian aid is being delivered, the reality on the ground suggests otherwise. Reports indicate that access to food is severely restricted, with many aid deliveries being insufficient to meet the overwhelming needs of the population (NPR, CNN). The World Health Organization and other humanitarian agencies have emphasized that the crisis is exacerbated by ongoing military operations, which hinder the delivery of aid and the restoration of basic services.

The reliability of the sources is high, as they come from recognized international organizations and media outlets that adhere to journalistic standards. However, it is important to note that the situation is complex and politically charged, which may influence the narratives presented by different stakeholders.

Conclusion

The claim that "Israel is starving Gazans" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources indicates that the population of Gaza is experiencing severe food insecurity and malnutrition, with many individuals, particularly children, facing life-threatening conditions. The ongoing conflict and military operations have significantly restricted access to food and humanitarian aid, contributing to a dire humanitarian crisis that aligns with the definitions of famine.