Gaza Strip Faces Worsening Crisis of Hunger and Malnutrition

Strategic Insights -

The population of the Gaza Strip is struggling with a severe shortage of food supplies, leading to a sharp increase in acute malnutrition rates, according to the medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF). The organization's field teams in Gaza City and Al-Mawasi have observed a significant rise in the number of malnourished pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children suffering from severe or moderate malnutrition. In May, the MSF health center in Gaza City treated 293 cases of malnutrition, but by the beginning of July, this number had nearly quadrupled to 983, including 326 cases in children between the ages of 6 and 23 months. The humanitarian situation in the Strip is critical, with over 700 pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as approximately 500 children, in need of immediate medical attention.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Organization has reported a "sharp and unprecedented" rise in acute malnutrition rates among the population of the Gaza Strip.
  • Over 700 pregnant and breastfeeding women, and approximately 500 children, are currently suffering from severe or moderate malnutrition in two MSF health centers in Gaza City and Al-Mawasi.
  • The number of malnutrition cases at the MSF health center in Gaza City has nearly quadrupled in less than two months, from 293 cases in May to 983 cases by the beginning of July.
  • The increase in malnutrition cases is particularly concerning for children between the ages of 6 and 23 months, with 326 cases reported in this age group.
  • The MSF has emphasized the need for urgent intervention to ensure the delivery of food and medical aid to the civilian population in the Gaza Strip.
  • The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is exacerbated by ongoing military operations, which are making it even more difficult for civilians, including children and vulnerable groups, to access basic necessities such as food and water.

Statistics:

  • 983 cases of malnutrition reported at the MSF health center in Gaza City by the beginning of July (Source: MSF).
  • 326 cases of malnutrition in children between the ages of 6 and 23 months reported at the MSF health center in Gaza City by the beginning of July (Source: MSF).
  • 293 cases of malnutrition reported at the MSF health center in Gaza City in May (Source: MSF).
  • Over 700 pregnant and breastfeeding women currently suffering from severe or moderate malnutrition in MSF health centers in Gaza City and Al-Mawasi (Source: MSF).
  • Approximately 500 children suffering from severe or moderate malnutrition in MSF health centers in Gaza City and Al-Mawasi (Source: MSF).

Sources:

  • National Iraqi News Agency (July 12, 2025)
  • Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Organization