Ireland’s Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Micheál Martin, has urgently called for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Gaza, as humanitarian organizations issue stark warnings about unprecedented levels of hunger and food insecurity in both regions.
In a statement released today, Martin expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crises in Sudan and Gaza, where the conflict has led to catastrophic food shortages and widespread suffering. Two key bodies monitoring global food insecurity, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) system and the Famine Early Warning Systems Network, have highlighted the grave scale of hunger in these regions, attributing the crises directly to the ongoing conflicts and deliberate obstructions of humanitarian aid.
Sudan: Famine Declared in Multiple Regions
In Sudan, the situation has reached a critical point, with famine declared in several parts of the country — the worst levels of food insecurity seen in over a century. According to the IPC, famine conditions (IPC 5) have been declared in five regions, affecting more than 500,000 people. A further five regions are expected to enter famine conditions in the coming months, while 17 additional areas are at imminent risk of famine.
Currently, over 8 million people in Sudan are experiencing “emergency” levels of food insecurity (IPC 4), with millions more in crisis conditions (IPC 3). These individuals are grappling with extreme food shortages, widespread malnutrition, and escalating disease outbreaks, with the risk of hunger-related deaths increasing by the day.
The ongoing conflict, coupled with deliberate blockages of humanitarian assistance, has caused widespread displacement and the destruction of vital infrastructure, including food and agricultural facilities. Despite international calls for peace, the warring factions in Sudan have further exacerbated the crisis by controlling and exploiting the country’s resources, including livestock, agricultural products, and minerals, with the support of external actors.
In a concerning development, Sudanese authorities withdrew from the formal IPC process, accusing the system of issuing “unreliable reports” that undermine the country’s sovereignty and dignity. Despite this, the scale of the crisis remains undeniable, with millions facing starvation unless urgent action is taken.
Gaza: Imminent Famine Threat as Humanitarian Access Remains Blocked
In Gaza, the situation is similarly dire. Although the IPC has not yet formally declared famine, the Famine Early Warning Systems Network has confirmed that famine conditions (IPC 5) have already been reached in the North Gaza Governorate. These areas, including Jabaliya, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun, have been under near-total siege for nearly 80 days, with little to no access to food or humanitarian aid. The Israeli blockade, combined with ongoing military operations, has severely curtailed the ability of aid organizations to deliver life-saving assistance to those in desperate need.
The Tánaiste condemned the ongoing siege in Gaza, stating, “The situation in northern Gaza is unconscionable. There is a strong likelihood that famine is imminent, and humanitarian access continues to be severely restricted by the Israeli authorities. Ireland calls for an immediate end to the military operations and an unconditional ceasefire to allow for the free flow of humanitarian aid to the region.”
A Call for Immediate Action
Micheál Martin emphasized that both of these hunger crises are “man-made” and entirely preventable. “The devastating impact of these conflicts on civilian populations — through forced displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid — cannot be allowed to continue. Ireland calls for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan and Gaza and for full, unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations to deliver food, medical supplies, and essential services to those who need them most.”
In both Sudan and Gaza, the situation remains critical. The international community must act swiftly and decisively to halt the suffering and prevent further loss of life. Humanitarian organizations continue to call for increased funding, as well as diplomatic pressure on all parties involved to reach a ceasefire and allow for the safe and timely delivery of aid to those affected by these devastating conflicts.
Global Response and Ireland’s Commitment
Ireland has long been a strong advocate for human rights and humanitarian aid in conflict zones. The government has pledged continued support for international organizations working in both Sudan and Gaza, providing emergency relief and urging greater global cooperation to address these crises.
As the world watches, the need for concerted action to stop the bloodshed, alleviate hunger, and restore peace has never been more urgent.