WFP: All Bakeries in Central Gaza Shut Down

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has confirmed the closure of all bakeries in central Gaza due to an acute shortage of supplies.

The situation highlights a growing food crisis in the besieged territory, where bread has often been the sole sustenance for many families.

Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN, expressed deep concern, stating that even access to bread is now beyond reach for the population.

The deteriorating conditions come as Gaza faces unprecedented challenges in accessing basic resources amid ongoing conflict.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned of a worsening food security situation across Gaza.

Since the start of 2024, two-thirds of children admitted for outpatient care for severe acute malnutrition were recorded in the last five months alone.

Between 1 and 23 November, more than 3,400 children were treated for severe acute malnutrition, according to UN data. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partner, International Relief, have recently established a stabilization centre in Deir al-Balah to treat the most critical cases.

However, the availability of such facilities remains dire, with only four operational centres in Gaza, including one in Khan Younis, one in Gaza City, and two in Deir al-Balah. UN officials stress the urgent need for additional resources to address the escalating crisis.

The humanitarian crisis is further compounded by statements from Israeli officials advocating drastic measures in Gaza. On Monday, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich suggested encouraging "voluntary migration" from Gaza as part of a broader strategy for the region.

Smotrich argued that reducing Gaza's population by half would be a step toward resolving broader conflicts in the West Bank. He also reiterated calls for Israel to take full administrative control of Gaza, citing this as the only viable way to dismantle Hamas.