Gaza - Saba:
The World Food Programme (WFP) has reaffirmed its full commitment to continuing support for Palestinian families despite the challenges, stating that the ongoing ban on direct distribution exacerbates the suffering of citizens, especially those caring for children, the elderly, or the sick.
In a statement issued on Friday, WFP emphasized that this situation contradicts fundamental humanitarian principles and forces many to face severe shortages of essential food supplies. The program noted that it has yet to receive authorization from Israeli authorities to distribute flour and other food items directly to families.
The statement pointed out that, under current conditions, the only safe option to ensure urgent aid delivery and meet critical needs—while avoiding the risk of future aid rejections—is to cooperate with bakeries.
"At present, WFP is working with a limited number of bakeries and partners to produce and distribute bread as the only viable option. Although this is not our preferred method, we are committed to ensuring people are not deprived of access to the bare minimum of essential food supplies during this critical time," the statement read.
The program highlighted numerous challenges it faces, including restrictions on distribution methods and the limited number of trucks allowed to bring permitted food supplies into Gaza. "All these challenges hinder our ability to provide sufficient food assistance to all families in need."
The statement stressed WFP’s deep awareness of the harsh conditions faced by every household, particularly families caring for children, the elderly, people with disabilities, or the sick. It reiterated WFP’s commitment to resuming direct distribution once conditions permit, in full adherence to the core principles of humanitarian action: integrity, neutrality, independence, and non-discrimination.
WFP appealed to Gaza’s community and its leadership to understand this complex situation and support the program’s efforts during this critical phase.
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