Geneva, March 28, 2024, The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has reiterated its call for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent famine as conditions deteriorate. The WFP warns that a potential Israeli ground attack in southern Gaza would further complicate its mission of delivering essential food aid to the region.
Matthew Hollingworth, the WFP country director for Palestine, stressed the critical importance of creating conditions that facilitate the daily delivery of food aid. This is essential to prevent famine, reduce fatalities, address malnutrition among children, and alleviate the suffering of vulnerable individuals who rely on aid for survival.
Recent findings from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report, released this month, underscore the severity of the situation. The report indicates that the region has surpassed the threshold for severe food insecurity leading to famine. Furthermore, it highlights the alarming progression of acute malnutrition among children under the age of five, approaching the second threshold that signifies a famine crisis.
These developments underscore the pressing need for immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The WFP's plea for a humanitarian ceasefire is a crucial step towards ensuring access to vital food assistance and preventing further escalation of the crisis.
