Introduction

• The Gaza Strip is witnessing what experts call a “worst-case scenario of famine,” amid an ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

• The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has raised alarms over widespread starvation, acute malnutrition, and hunger-related deaths.

Understanding Famine

• Definition of Famine:

  • A famine is declared when at least:

    • 20% of the population faces extreme food shortages.

    • 30% of children suffer from acute malnutrition.

    • 2 people per 10,000 die daily from hunger-related causes.

• IPC Classification:

  • IPC is a global initiative involving 21 humanitarian agencies, including the UN, to analyze and classify food crises.

  • Famine is classified as Phase 5 in IPC’s scale.

• Why Declaration Matters:

  • Triggers urgent international aid.

  • Influences political pressure and policy shifts.

  • Mobilizes funding from governments and donors.

Current Crisis in Gaza

• Extent of Crisis:

  • 2.1 million people in Gaza face acute food insecurity.

  • Gaza City has crossed thresholds for famine-level malnutrition.

  • Children are disproportionately affected.

• Food Aid Deficit:

  • At least 62,000 MT of food needed monthly.

  • Only 19,900 MT in May and 37,800 MT in June reached Gaza (COGAT data).

Root Causes: Man-Made Famine

• Blockade and Military Operations:

  • Israel controls Gaza’s airspace, borders, and coastline.

  • Blockade and bombardment disrupted agriculture, infrastructure, and supply chains.

  • Egypt also restricts border access.

• War Impact:

  • Ongoing since October 7, 2023.

  • Over 60,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began.

  • Civilian infrastructure including bakeries, farms, and hospitals has been targeted.

Geopolitical and Historical Context

• Zionism and the Israeli State:

  • Originated in 19th-century Europe in response to antisemitism.

  • The 1948 creation of Israel displaced thousands of Palestinians.

  • Gaza is now governed by Hamas; the West Bank by Fatah.

• Control and Governance:

  • Gaza: Administered by Hamas since 2006.

  • West Bank: Partially administered by the Palestinian Authority.

  • Israel controls aid and movement in/out of Gaza.

India’s Response

• Official Stance:

  • India supports a two-state solution.

  • Urged for ceasefire and humanitarian aid access.

  • Provided emergency medical supplies and food aid via UN channels.

• Balancing Act:

  • Maintains diplomatic ties with both Israel and Palestine.

  • Avoids overt criticism of Israeli military actions, emphasizing humanitarian concern.

Conclusion

• Gaza’s crisis is a textbook example of a man-made famine, exacerbated by war and political standoff.

• International legal and humanitarian mechanisms must act swiftly.

• India, as an emerging power, must take a proactive humanitarian role while navigating geopolitical complexities.