Gaza: The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has officially declared a famine in the Gaza Governorate, marking the first such occurrence in the Middle East. This dire situation is projected to expand to the cities of Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis in the coming weeks. The IPC, a UN-backed hunger monitoring system, stated, "As of 15 August 2025, Famine (IPC Phase 5) - with reasonable evidence - is confirmed in Gaza Governorate."

According to Anadolu Agency, the UN's humanitarian chief has accused Israel of deliberately exacerbating the crisis. Tom Fletcher, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), condemned Israel's actions, stating that the famine in Gaza is a "predictable and preventable" disaster. He emphasized that the obstruction of aid by Israel has been a significant factor, with food supplies being blocked at borders despite being within reach in a fertile region.

The situation has been further complicated by Israel's Cabinet approving a comprehensive plan for the occupation of Gaza City. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been authorized to carry out extensive military operations in Gaza, with conditions set for Hamas to end the conflict, which include the release of hostages and disarmament.

The UN human rights chief, Volker Turk, has also highlighted the legal ramifications of Israel's actions, asserting that the use of starvation as a weapon of war constitutes a war crime. The Palestinian Health Ministry has reported that over 62,300 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began in October 2023, with famine-related deaths rising to 273, including 112 children.

In related international developments, US President Donald Trump has announced potential "massive sanctions or tariffs" on Russia within two weeks, contingent on developments in the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, oil prices have seen a slight increase due to ongoing tensions and a draw in US crude inventories.