The technical requirements of international protocols, such as the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), demand complex criteria and highly accurate statistical data before a famine can be officially declared. Meanwhile, people are already dying from severe acute malnutrition and related diseases.
The lack of reliable data in besieged areas and active conflict zones often prevents international agencies from classifying conditions as Phase 5 (Famine). As a result, the international community’s wait for formal confirmation can itself become a barrier to delivering the urgent humanitarian response needed to save lives.

The rise in global food prices is the result of several overlapping factors.
The most significant drivers include higher energy, fuel, and international shipping costs.
These are compounded by disruptions in supply chains, adverse weather conditions, and volatility in commodity markets.
Energy is not the sole cause, but it is a pivotal factor, as it affects every stage of the food production process.

Food security expert Dr. Fadel ELZUBI said that weather conditions and climate change play a major role in determining the timing of Jordan’s apple harvest and its arrival in the market. In previous years, the apple harvest season in the Mafraq region sometimes began before August 1 and continued until approximately mid-September. Today, however, as a result of changing weather patterns and climatic conditions, fruit ripening and the start of the harvest have been delayed until late August or early September, extending into early October. This delay consequently postpones the availability of locally produced apples in the market.

Food security expert Dr. Fadel ELZUBI says that the success of Medjool date production has been driven primarily by private-sector investments that capitalized on a genuine climatic advantage in the Jordan Valley and the southern regions.

The gains achieved since the ceasefire are fragile because they are based on relief assistance rather than structural improvements.
Acute malnutrition has declined because preventive programs were expanded. Now, that very funding is being withdrawn as winter approaches, while local food production remains paralyzed.

Is food waste a consumer behavior problem or a broken food system problem?
Food waste is not merely a consumer behavior issue; it is a problem affecting the entire food system.
The problem often begins with production, storage, and transportation, and continues through markets, restaurants, and households.
Therefore, it is not enough to simply ask consumers to avoid wasting food. Supply chains must be improved, legislation strengthened, and public awareness enhanced.
Real reform begins on the farm and continues all the way to the consumer’s table.