Local food systems in Gaza 'devastated' by Israeli military operations: UN

HAMILTON, Canada

The UN on Monday said that local food systems in Gaza have been "devastated" by Israel's land and air strikes, highlighting access to food as one of the most pressing concerns.

"Our humanitarian partners are also warning that local food systems have been devastated by military ground operations, the bombardment of civilian areas and the presence of unexploded ordnance," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric during a news conference.

He stated that "access to food remains the most critical concern raised by community members across all group."

Dujarric emphasized that food insecurity in Gaza is "worsening" daily, leaving people "more vulnerable".

Describing the bakeries in Gaza as a "lifeline," he said they are unable to remain operational due to a lack of fuel and flour.

Responding to Anadolu's question on World Central Kitchen suspending its aid operations as well as UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) recently halting aid via Kerem Shalom crossing due to security concerns, Dujarric referred to his previous comments about the ongoing lack of food, UN's inability to distribute aid and said "the facts are pretty clear, and they're pretty horrific."