BEIRUT : The World Food Programme’s country director for Lebanon has raised serious concerns over the worsening trajectory of the ongoing conflict, warning that the country’s food security situation is deteriorating at an alarming pace.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, she highlighted that Lebanon was already grappling with deep vulnerabilities even before the recent escalation in strikes. Approximately 870,000 people were living in food insecurity prior to the latest developments, a number now expected to rise significantly.
The situation has been further aggravated by economic pressures, including rising energy and food costs. According to the official, these factors are directly driving up the cost of basic necessities, making it increasingly difficult for families to afford daily meals.
The crisis is compounded by large-scale displacement, with over one million people forced from their homes. Many of these families are now struggling to meet even their most basic needs, including access to food.
Recent data points to a sharp increase in prices of essential items. Vegetable prices have surged by an estimated 20 percent, while bread, a staple in Lebanese households, has seen a 17 percent rise. These increases are placing an additional burden on already strained households.
Officials warn that without urgent intervention, the number of people facing food insecurity will continue to grow, further deepening the humanitarian crisis across the country.
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