Assessing the effects of 2023–2024 conflict on food security, dietary habits, and nutritional well-being among the population of Gaza

In the Gaza Strip, 63% of individuals suffer from food insecurity and rely on international aid, and 81.5% of the population lived below the poverty line, with an unemployment rate of 46.6% as of the third quarter of 2022. Since the onset of the 2023–2024 conflict, the situation has not only worsened but also intensified dramatically. This study investigates the effects of the 2023–2024 conflict on food security, dietary habits, and nutritional well-being among Gaza's population, by analyzing data from scientific research and official reports of international aid organizations, local government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, The study reveals a severe decline in nutritional status attributable to the ongoing conflict. The findings indicate a significant reduction in food diversity, with notable shortages of essential items such as meat, fruits, and vegetables, accompanied by a marked increase in food prices. Consequently, many internally displaced persons (IDPs) are increasingly dependent on unhealthy, packaged foods. The study further highlights critical health issues arising from this crisis, including a decreased availability of animal proteins, a lack of fresh produce, and an overall imbalance in dietary variety. The destruction of agricultural infrastructure—comprising farms, land, pastures, and animal pens—and restricted access due to military operations have compounded food insecurity and aggravated the nutritional crisis. This study emphasizes the urgent need to end the current war and the crucial need for coordinated efforts by local and international organizations to solve food shortages, increase dietary variety, and improve the nutritional well-being of the population of Gaza.