Published on: 2026-07-23
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
July 23, 2026 Humanitarian Aid
A new analysis published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UNICEF, and the World Food Programme (WFP) shows initial signs of improvement in food security and child nutrition in Gaza. However, the UN warns that progress remains extremely fragile and completely depends on sustained humanitarian access and the restoration of commercial supplies.
Despite the expansion of humanitarian corridors, only one checkpoint — Kerem Shalom — is operational in the southern part of the enclave, limiting the flow of vital goods.
According to the analysis, the number of people in Gaza experiencing severe food shortages has decreased from 1.6 million to 1.4 million. Progress has also been recorded in child nutrition indicators: prevention and treatment programs for acute malnutrition have covered the majority of children under five years old.
In May 2026, food assistance reached 1.5 million people, cash support 700 thousand, and access to treatment for acute malnutrition expanded significantly. This is a sharp contrast to September 2025, when assistance was received by only about 500 thousand people, and coverage of children was less than one percent.
Nevertheless, improvements remain limited. Diets are still insufficient in quantity and variety, and commercial supplies of fresh produce and protein are unstable. About 212,000 people continue to face conditions of acute food insecurity, especially in areas adjacent to the Israel-controlled line, where humanitarian access is difficult.
Prevention and treatment
Humanitarian organizations note that improvements in nutrition indicators have become possible thanks to the expansion of prevention and treatment programs. In the coming year, about 74 thousand children will need treatment for acute malnutrition, and 25 thousand pregnant and breastfeeding women will require additional support.
There are also initial signs of local food production recovery: in areas where farmers have gained access to land, resources, and veterinary care, the sheep population has increased by 33 percent. However, more than 70 percent of agricultural land remains inaccessible, and only three percent is suitable for use. Restrictions on the import of agricultural goods, including seeds and fertilizers, continue to block production recovery. Access to the sea also remains closed, depriving people of the opportunity to fish and earn income.
Funding deficit
FAO, UNICEF, and WFP emphasize that sustainable peace and security are key conditions for the restoration of life in Gaza. Stable operation of all humanitarian corridors passing through Jordan, Israel, and Egypt is necessary, as well as the expansion of commercial access to stabilize markets. The restoration of water supply, sanitation, and healthcare systems is critically important: without this, disease outbreaks could nullify the progress made.
Agencies are calling on the international community to increase flexible and predictable funding for food aid, healthcare, water supply, sanitation, and livelihood restoration programs. The depletion of current resources threatens the progress made and could again put the lives of 2.1 million residents of Gaza at risk.
Please note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.