A United Nations–backed analysis has concluded that Gaza is now living through the "worst-case scenario" of famine. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, whose assessments guide global humanitarian response, said famine thresholds for food consumption, acute malnutrition and hunger-related mortality have been reached across most of the enclave. It plans a rapid review that could lead to a formal famine declaration unless conditions improve immediately. The World Health Organization, UNICEF and other UN agencies reported a surge in starvation deaths, with more than 100 people—mostly children—dying from hunger in the past few weeks. One in five children under five years old in Gaza City is acutely malnourished, and 39% of the population is enduring entire days without food. WHO warned that the crisis is ‘entirely avoidable’ if large-scale aid, water, medicine and fuel can enter without obstruction. The humanitarian emergency is unfolding alongside continued fighting. Gaza’s Health Ministry said Israeli military operations have killed at least 60,034 Palestinians and injured about 145,870 since October 2023, with dozens more deaths reported daily. Rescue crews say many bodies remain trapped under rubble, and hospitals lack the power and supplies needed to treat the wounded or the severely malnourished. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate cease-fire and urged that the current ‘trickle’ of assistance become ‘an ocean’. The UN Relief and Works Agency said 6,000 aid trucks are waiting to enter the territory, while the World Food Programme is receiving approvals for only half of its convoy requests. Aid officials warn that without unrestricted access at scale, mass starvation and further loss of life are inevitable.