SAFA — The United Nations has warned that stockpiles of essential supplies in Gaza remain critically insufficient, as funding shortages and Israeli restrictions continue to hamper humanitarian operations in the besieged enclave.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said Wednesday that severe funding shortfalls and stringent restrictions on humanitarian partners’ ability to replenish supplies are preventing aid organizations from maintaining adequate stocks to meet mounting needs.

The warning comes as Israeli airstrikes and other attacks continue to hit populated areas across Gaza, placing civilians at grave risk and causing further damage to homes and civilian infrastructure.

Dujarric highlighted an Israeli airstrike on Tuesday that struck a building in Bureij, near Deir al-Balah, close to two UN-run schools being used as shelters for displaced Palestinians and a UN-supported bakery.

Around 100 families lost their shelters and belongings as a result of the attack, according to the UN.

Dujarric stressed that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including humanitarian shelters and facilities, must be protected at all times.

The warning comes amid continuing restrictions on the entry of critical humanitarian supplies. UN humanitarian officials say shortages of shelter materials, medicines and other essential items, compounded by funding gaps and delayed approvals, are severely limiting the humanitarian response.

OCHA has warned that many critical supplies remain awaiting Israeli approval or clearance, while restrictions on items designated by Israel as “dual use” continue to hamper humanitarian and recovery efforts.

The shortages are placing additional pressure on Palestinians already facing widespread destruction, displacement and severely limited access to essential services across the Gaza Strip.