The World Food Programme (WFP) is intensifying its emergency operations in South Sudan’s Jonglei state, where escalating conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands and worsened an already severe hunger crisis. Approximately 60 per cent of the population in the area—around 1.2 million people—are acutely food insecure. Aid is being transported primarily through river routes, but deteriorating security conditions are disrupting deliveries and raising concerns that hunger could reach unprecedented levels. WFP aims to assist more than half a million people facing catastrophic food insecurity, though it urgently requires $341 million to support 4.2 million people nationwide this year. The security situation remains volatile, with the UN condemning attacks on humanitarian personnel and urging all parties to ensure safe and unimpeded access for aid workers.
In Gaza, humanitarian partners have reached roughly 670,000 people with February food assistance. However, ration sizes remain at only 50 per cent due to insufficient supplies within the enclave. According to the United Nations, the entry of humanitarian goods from Egypt has remained critically low in recent weeks, reportedly due to high rejection rates by Israeli authorities. Despite these constraints, more than 20 UN partners are distributing over 1.7 million meals daily through 180 kitchens, while also aligning meal distribution with Ramadan fasting hours and incorporating additional fresh produce and protein. Aid agencies continue to provide shelter materials and essential supplies to thousands of households, stressing that restrictions must be urgently lifted to address overwhelming humanitarian needs.
Meanwhile, the UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict concluded her first official visit to Syria since taking office. During the three-day mission, she met with government officials, UN partners, diplomats, and families affected by over a decade of conflict. Discussions focused on strengthening child protection frameworks and exploring opportunities for cooperation with Syria’s new government. While acknowledging positive engagement, she highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly regarding children allegedly linked to armed groups and the continued threat posed by unexploded ordnance and landmines. Emphasizing that children should be treated as victims rather than detained, she called for greater protection measures and reiterated that Syria’s children deserve a future defined by peace, stability and opportunity.
