The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) announced Friday that all bakeries in central Gaza have ceased operations due to severe shortages of essential supplies, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis caused by Israel’s ongoing military offensive.

In a statement on social media platform X, the WFP highlighted the critical nature of the situation, warning that bread—a staple for many families—is becoming inaccessible. “Bread is now slipping out of reach,” the WFP noted, adding that “famine remains a serious risk” unless vital humanitarian aid is allowed into Gaza.

The call for “safe and secure access of vital humanitarian aid” comes as the blockade on Gaza severely restricts the flow of food, water, and medical supplies.

The blockade has also left northern Gaza completely isolated, including areas such as Beit Lahiya, Beit Hanoun, and the Jabaliya refugee camp, according to Ajith Sungai, the representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the occupied Palestinian territory. Sungai confirmed that no humanitarian aid could be delivered to the region due to Israel’s tight siege.

The United Nations estimates that up to 131,000 people have fled northern Gaza since the Israeli military launched its offensive two months ago, with approximately 75,000 people remaining trapped in the region.

Experts in food security have repeatedly raised alarms about the dire situation in Gaza. Earlier this month, the Famine Review Committee suggested that famine thresholds may have already been crossed or could soon be reached.

The ongoing siege and lack of humanitarian access have led to catastrophic conditions, with the WFP describing the risk of famine as increasingly severe.

The WFP and other UN agencies are urging immediate measures to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza to prevent further loss of life. Despite these calls, the situation on the ground remains dire, with food shortages, displacement, and ongoing military operations exacerbating the suffering of millions.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the international community faces mounting pressure to address the escalating emergency in Gaza. (ILKHA)