The World Food Programme has launched an emergency food operation in Lebanon to assist up to one million individuals affected by the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The initiative will provide essential food rations, underlining the urgent need for humanitarian aid in light of rising displacement due to the violence. Funding of $105 million is urgently required to maintain these operations.
On September 29, 2024, the World Food Programme (WFP) initiated an emergency food assistance operation in Lebanon, aimed at supporting up to one million individuals impacted by the recent military confrontations between Israel and Hezbollah. This escalation has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, prompting the agency to distribute ready-to-eat meals, bread, hot food, and food parcels to families residing in shelters throughout the country. WFP emphasized that the urgency of this humanitarian endeavor has been amplified by the recent surge in conflict, which has intensified displacement among an already vulnerable population suffering from multiple crises. Since the emergence of the current situation, WFP has provided aid to over 66,000 individuals across various shelters in Lebanon. However, to sustain these vital operations, the agency urgently seeks $105 million in funding until the conclusion of the year and has appealed to the international community for support in this humanitarian response. Corinne Fleischer, WFP’s Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe, articulated concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in Lebanon, stating, “Lebanon is at a breaking point and cannot endure another war. WFP is on the ground, but we urgently need funds. More urgently, the people in the region need peace.” Additionally, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati reported that the number of displaced individuals due to Israeli airstrikes could approach one million, a crisis he described as “the largest in the history of Lebanon,” advocating for an immediate cease-fire across all conflict zones. The tensions between Hezbollah and Israeli forces escalated following a strategic shift by Israel in military operations from the Gaza Strip to the northern region, causing significant violence after hostilities resumed on October 8, 2023, when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, which prompted retaliatory actions from Israel.
The current humanitarian situation in Lebanon is severely impacted by ongoing military tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which have led to large-scale displacement and a dire need for food and basic necessities. The conflict, which reignited in October 2023, has compounded existing crises faced by the Lebanese population, including economic hardships and infrastructure challenges. The WFP’s response highlights the immediate need for international aid and support to alleviate the suffering of affected individuals and ensure their basic sustenance amid escalating violence. Furthermore, local leadership calls for a ceasefire to mitigate the escalating humanitarian crisis.
The WFP’s emergency operation aims to provide critical food assistance to those affected by the latest conflict in Lebanon, where displacement numbers are alarmingly high. The organization seeks urgent financial support to continue its efforts, while local leaders emphasize the necessity of peace to prevent further humanitarian degradation. The statements from both WFP officials and the Lebanese government reflect a consensus on the urgent need for international intervention and a cessation of hostilities to safeguard the well-being of a vulnerable population.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
