Follow-Up Statement on the situation in Gaza

26 August 2025

Since our earlier Open Letter to the UN Secretary General of June 1 2025, the situation in Gaza has reached an even more alarming stage. The recent report of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), formally confirming famine conditions for nearly a quarter of the population and acute food insecurity for 96% of the population in Gaza, underscores the catastrophic human cost of the continuing blockade, military operations, and restrictions on humanitarian access. This famine represents not only a humanitarian emergency but also a grave breach of international law.

In light of these findings, we urge renewed and urgent action by the United Nations, its Member States and regional organizations to ensure immediate, unhindered humanitarian access, the protection of civilians, and the swift delivery of life-saving food, water, medical supplies, and fuel. The IPC’s independent, evidence-based assessment leaves no doubt about the severity of the crisis. To delay is to condemn thousands more to preventable suffering and death.

Einstein and Russell’s warning that our survival depends on remembering our humanity, demands that all leaders and all nations act with courage and compassion to end the cycle of violence and protect the lives of the innocent. Today, that call resounds with unbearable urgency.

Hussain Al-Shahristani, President
Karen Hallberg, Secretary General