UN food agency shuts Gaza bakeries amid supply shortages

The World Food Programme (WFP) has closed all its bakeries in Gaza due to dwindling supplies, UN officials confirmed. The closures come nearly a month after Israel halted all imports into the enclave, exacerbating food shortages.

Israel maintains that enough aid entered Gaza during a six-week ceasefire to sustain its population. However, UN agencies report that markets have been empty for weeks and stored supplies are depleting. Gaza relies heavily on humanitarian aid after the war destroyed much of its food production.

The Israeli military says 450,000 tonnes of aid entered during the truce, but aid groups argue distribution was limited. The war, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties.