Famine in Gaza: Unraveling the IPC's Urgent Alert

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) determined famine in Gaza, two years after Israel's military campaign. The IPC, an independent body, assesses hunger using a five-phase scale. Criticized for slow responses, the IPC's analysis in Gaza is hampered by data access issues and regional instability.

A global hunger monitor has declared famine conditions in Gaza, marking a significant humanitarian crisis in the region. This determination comes nearly two years post-Israel's military campaign, launched in retaliation to the Hamas attack of October 2023.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), an independent entity supported by Western nations, is recognized globally for its role in assessing hunger crises. Its five-phase scale, with famine as the most severe phase, activated a review committee upon findings in Gaza.

Despite criticisms of slow reaction times, the IPC's groundwork in Gaza faces challenges due to restricted data access and political complexities. With specific regions like Gaza City already in famine and others projected to follow, there is heightened international focus on addressing the dire situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)