The World Food Programme has launched an emergency operation in Lebanon to provide food assistance to up to one million conflict-affected individuals following a recent escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah. WFP aims to deliver essential food supplies, requiring urgent funding to continue its critical humanitarian efforts.
On September 29, 2024, the World Food Programme (WFP) initiated an emergency operation aimed at delivering food assistance to those affected by the recent escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The WFP’s efforts are focused on reaching up to one million individuals, providing essential food supplies such as ready-to-eat meals, bread, hot meals, and food parcels for displaced families residing in shelters throughout the country. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant displacement, exacerbating the challenges faced by a population already struggling with multiple crises. The WFP has been actively engaged in assisting affected individuals since the onset of the crisis, successfully reaching over 66,000 people in shelters to date. In response to the urgent needs of the affected population, the WFP has stated that it requires $105 million in funding to sustain its operations through the end of the year. The organization is calling upon the international community for increased resources and support for humanitarian efforts. WFP’s regional director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe, Corinne Fleischer, emphasized the dire 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.” Furthermore, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati shared concerns regarding the displaced population, stating that the numbers could reach one million due to the Israeli airstrikes. He characterized this displacement as potentially the largest in Lebanon’s history and called for a ceasefire on all fronts. The conflict has intensified following Israel’s recent military focus on the northern front after previous engagements in the Gaza Strip. Clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces escalated on October 8, 2023, when Hezbollah began launching rockets towards Israel, which prompted retaliatory strikes from Israel in southeastern Lebanon.
The humanitarian situation in Lebanon has been deteriorating due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which has escalated since October 2023. The incidents have resulted in significant civilian displacement, compelling humanitarian organizations such as the WFP to respond promptly to the escalating needs of the population. Lebanon, already facing various socio-economic challenges, has entered a critical juncture where the number of displaced individuals from recent conflicts is unprecedented.
In conclusion, the World Food Programme’s emergency operation is a crucial intervention aimed at alleviating the humanitarian crisis affecting millions in Lebanon as a result of the intensified conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The need for immediate funding and international support is vital to ensure the continuation of essential food assistance for those in dire circumstances, alongside a diplomatic resolution to restore peace in the region.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
