raqis trapped in the city of Mosul, which was captured by the ISIL terrorists, are also at risk of grave hunger. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) says it’s concerned about the food security of thousands of Iraqis in ISIL-held areas.
Mosul is cut off from the outside world as it remains under occupation. Humanitarian aid cannot go through. WFP, the lead hunger relief organization, is feeding Iraqis who have fled the ISIL onslaught.
WFP has fed 1.4 million starving Iraqis since the conflict escalated last year. They are also standing by to bring food to newly liberated areas.
Iraqi forces, backed by U.S. airstrikes, are seizing ground near Mosul. They continue to make difficult progress towards retaking the city. This would allow humanitarian aid to enter.
WFP has been able to bring food into Anbar governorate for the first time since October. Partnering with the Iraqi Salvation Humanitarian Organisation (ISHO), around 31,800 displaced people have been provided family food parcels.
Fighting between Iraqi forces and ISIL is ongoing in many parts of the country, causing new displacement and hunger. As the war continues, WFP needs to maintain a steady pipeline of food aid.
Donations are needed now to prevent a break in supplies starting in March. A complete stoppage would happen in April if new donations fail to materialize.
WFP relies on voluntary donations from the international community. The amount of US $200 million is required for Iraq‘s emergency mission.
Read the full article at Examiner.
Author William Lambers 