ירמיהו, פרק י״ט, פסוק ט׳

A harsh prophecy outlines a severe punishment based on the principle of measure for measure. The people had previously sacrificed their own children, burning them as offerings to idols and the Baal. As a direct consequence, their punishment mirrors their crime. Instead of offering their children to false gods, they will be forced to consume the flesh of their own sons and daughters [מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This horrific reality will unfold during a military siege. Enemy troops will surround the city, cutting off all access in order to conquer it. The resulting blockade will create a severe famine and a desperate shortage of food. Driven by extreme starvation, the trapped people will resort to eating their own children and friends [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון]. Ultimately, the enemy forces will inflict intense pressure, trouble, and crushing distress upon the population [רש״י, מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ].