Japan Provides US$2 million to assist people impacted by recent conflict in Lebanon
BEIRUT— The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a contribution of US$2 million from the people and the Government of Japan to support conflict-affected families across Lebanon, including refugees, and help them meet their urgent food needs in this challenging time.
This contribution will enable WFP to provide urgent food assistance for six months for vulnerable displaced families living in official or makeshift shelters across the country. Food distributions, which include ready-to-eat rations that do not require cooking facilities and hot meals, will focus on areas most affected by the recent escalation of conflict.
"Support from the people of Japan comes at a critical time when Lebanon is facing its worst crisis since the 2006 war," said WFP Representative and Country Director in Lebanon Matthew Hollingworth. "This funding will allow us to continue providing vital assistance to people most in need, ensuring no one is left behind as the country grapples with multiple challenges."
The recent escalation has exacerbated an already dire food security situation in Lebanon. The conflict has caused widespread destruction of farmland in the South and Bekaa regions, which account for over 60 percent of Lebanon’s agricultural production. This destruction has further strained the ability of affected populations to meet their minimum food needs without depleting their savings or essential livelihood assets. Conditions are expected to worsen following the recent escalation of conflict, with over 1 million people now directly affected and displaced.
“Amidst escalating hostilities and mounting humanitarian needs, the Government of Japan has decided to extend this emergency grant to Lebanon through the WFP. Our primary objective is to preserve food security and ease the burdens of displacement on the most affected families. Japan will continue to make all available efforts to support Lebanon during this arduous period,“ said Ambassador of Japan to Lebanon H.E. Magoshi Masayuki.
The Government of Japan's continued support highlights the strong and enduring partnership among Japan, WFP, and the Government of Lebanon. Over the past five years, Japan has provided WFP with US$13.5 million in food assistance in Lebanon, consistently supporting the country during times of crisis.
# # #
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media @WFPLebanon
