UN-backed experts say there have been improvements in nutrition and food supplies in Gaza since the ceasefire, but 100,000 people still experienced catastrophic conditions last month.
In August, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), which monitors and classifies global hunger crises, reported that half a million people - about a quarter of Gaza's population - lived in areas suffering from famine.
The UN and other humanitarian agencies have managed to increase food supplies entering Gaza since the October ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Israel's foreign ministry responded to the IPC report, claiming it was deliberately distorted and does not reflect the reality in the Gaza Strip.
The latest IPC analysis suggests that while half a million Gazans were facing emergency conditions last month, the number of those in IPC Phase 5—the most severe—experienced catastrophic conditions. The report asserts that no areas in Gaza are currently classified as in famine. However, Israel has continuously challenged IPC's findings and its methodology.
Despite the reported improvements, the situation remains precarious; the IPC has predicted that without renewed hostilities the number facing severe conditions could fall drastically by April, emphasizing the fragility of the current advancements.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated ongoing efforts toward peace discussions with the US aiming to further stabilize conditions in Gaza, but the humanitarian access remains limited due to prolonged blockades and other restrictions.
Reports highlight that critical malnutrition remains prevalent in several regions, with the IPC warning that if hostilities resume, famine could once again threaten the entire Strip.
Agencies have noted that overall living conditions remain dire, worsened by harsh winter conditions, necessitating a persistent and expanded humanitarian response.
