Gaza City, Gaza – A shortage of flour and fuel has led to long queues at bakeries in Gaza, where residents are struggling to buy bread. Fourteen-year-old Muhammed al-Roubi was among many waiting in the sun, hoping to secure a loaf.
Due to Israeli restrictions on imports, bakeries are unable to meet the demand for bread. Many families, like al-Roubi’s, rely on subsidized bread packages but often return empty-handed.
Gaza’s Government Media Office stated that the territory needs about 450 tonnes of flour daily, but only 200 tonnes are arriving. The situation worsened after Israel closed crossings into Gaza on February 28, limiting supplies.
More than a third of Gaza’s population depends on bread from World Food Programme (WFP) bakeries, where prices have risen significantly. A package now costs between 10 and 15 shekels ($3.45 to $5.17), creating financial strain for families.
In addition to the bread crisis, cooking gas supplies have decreased, and the price of firewood has increased. Bakeries are also struggling due to limited access to oil for generators, essential for their operations.
Residents fear that the worsening situation could lead to a return to hunger levels seen during previous crises.
