The United Nations reported a surge in malnutrition cases among children in northern Gaza as the humanitarian crisis there continues to deepen.

"Our partners reported a surge in malnutrition cases among children in northern Gaza last month. They noted a more than 300% increase in July – when more than 650 cases of acute malnutrition were diagnosed – compared to May, when 145 such cases were detected," UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters during a news conference.

Haq said the reason is "due to access constraints, shortages in essential supplies, limited availability of fresh produce and meat, poor water and sanitation services, and spreading diseases."

The ongoing Israeli bombardment continues to inflict casualties and displace civilians, with recent attacks on schools sheltering displaced families. Haq emphasized the urgent need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law to protect civilians.