The UN’s humanitarian agency (OCHA) has said a total of 18,741 children in Gaza have been admitted for the treatment of acute malnutrition since the beginning of this year, Al Jazeera reports.

In the first two weeks of June alone, there were 1,648 new admissions, with 17 of the patients suffering from complications, it said.

“The current volume and pace of deliveries remain critically insufficient to meet the needs of Gaza’s entire population, which is facing high levels of acute food insecurity,” OCHA said.

“Consistent, frequent, large-scale deliveries through crossings are urgently needed to meet needs and stabilise availability, pricing, and affordability of wheat flour and other basic staples, as well as reduce tensions and rebuild trust within communities. All UN-supported bakeries remain closed,” it added.