ROME – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has expressed deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Israel and the State of Palestine and its grave impact on the affected populations, particularly vulnerable children and families.
The escalating conflict has created significant challenges in accessing essential food supplies for civilians, as food distribution networks are disrupted, and food production is severely hampered due to the ongoing hostilities.
WFP is urgently advocating for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to the affected areas, urging all parties involved to adhere to humanitarian law principles and take necessary measures to protect the lives and well-being of civilians, ensuring their access to food.
The organization stands ready to swiftly respond with pre-positioned food stocks for displaced individuals or those in shelters, as soon as the situation permits. Additionally, WFP aims to resume its regular food and cash-based transfer assistance to support vulnerable populations.
While most shops in the affected areas in Palestine currently hold a one-month food supply, these reserves are at risk of depletion due to the fear of a prolonged conflict, exacerbated by frequent electricity cuts posing a threat of food spoilage.
WFP is closely monitoring the availability and prices of food items and other essential commodities through its network of 300 local shops. The organization is collaborating with local bakeries to provide fresh bread and support the local economy.
WFP has played a critical role in providing vital food assistance, serving approximately 350,000 Palestinians each month and extending aid to nearly one million Palestinians in partnership with other humanitarian organizations, utilizing its cash-based transfers platform.
These developments come after a devastating 60 percent reduction in assistance to WFP food aid recipients since June 2023, primarily due to funding shortfalls, resulting in only 150,000 people receiving reduced rations.
The United Nations World Food Programme, the world’s largest humanitarian organization, continues its mission of saving lives in emergencies and leveraging food assistance to pave the way for peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflicts, disasters, and the impact of climate change.