WFP Palestine Emergency Response External Situation Report #20

16 May 2024

Highlights

• Despite numerous access challenges, WFP provided support to 1.8 million people in Gaza in April, with food parcels, wheat flour, and hot meals. WFP efforts aim to combat and reverse malnutrition, as well as provide support to bakeries, to revitalize damaged food systems.

• The modest access improvements achieved in recent weeks are now under significant strain due to ground forces advancing into Rafah since May 6 and the issuance of evacuation orders. In addition to the tragic loss of civilian and humanitarian lives, over half a million people have been forcibly displaced from Rafah and are now in search of shelter elsewhere.

• Escalation of hostilities and lack of access to the main WFP warehouse and Kerem Shalom crossing have restrained WFP and partners’ operations in southern and central Gaza. Fuel shortages and displacement of humanitarian personnel have led to limited distributions of reduced rations. WFP has prioritized the provision of hot meals to displaced populations in central areas.

• WFP is deeply concerned that further escalation could precipitate an already looming humanitarian catastrophe and bring aid operations to a complete standstill. All parties must ensure regular humanitarian access until a ceasefire is agreed.

Situation Update

• WFP’s main warehouse in Rafah is now inaccessible. Food distribution in Rafah is currently suspended due to insecurity, partners’ lack of stock, and displacement of humanitarian personnel. All WFP-contracted bakeries in Rafah have shut down.

• In central areas, WFP prioritized hot meals and supports bakeries, reaching up to 200,000 meals in one day.

• Current supplies of food and fuel in Gaza will only last a few of days, and WFP’s operations might come to a standstill.