The United Nations has issued a grave warning regarding the escalating food crisis in Lebanon, where more than one million people are currently grappling with acute shortages. This situation, exacerbated by two consecutive conflicts and a deteriorating economic landscape, could potentially affect nearly a quarter of the nation's population if urgent action is not taken, as stated in a joint warning from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, World Food Programme (WFP), and Lebanon’s Ministry of Agriculture.
As per the alarming prediction, the number of individuals facing food shortages may surge to 1.15 million by mid-2024. The dire economic situation in Lebanon has resulted in limited employment opportunities, depleted savings, and mounting debt, while the escalating cost of essentials such as food and fuel continues to stretch household budgets. For many families, these challenges are pushing them closer to a crisis point, with few options left for coping mechanisms like saving or borrowing money.
Lebanon’s Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani emphasized the need for a coordinated national response aimed at addressing urgent food needs, safeguarding livelihoods, and restoring productive capacity. The authorities in Lebanon estimate that the cost of conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah over the past two years has amounted to approximately $27 billion. Although a US-brokered framework deal was signed in June between Israel and Lebanon’s government to cease hostilities, Israeli forces continue to occupy territories within Lebanon, straining diplomatic relations.
The latest conflict, which erupted in March, displaced over one million people in Lebanon. Since violence subsided in June, the number of displaced individuals has dropped to around 300,000. Despite these developments, Beirut remains in search of a bailout from the International Monetary Fund, yet to implement reforms demanded by the institution for the release of aid. The economic crisis that began in 2019 continues to plague Lebanon, further complicating efforts to alleviate the hunger crisis and restore stability to the nation.