WFP to increase food aid to Syria

World Food Programme (WFP) says it is increasing its food assistance programme in Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime.

In a statement, WFP said as Syria goes through a political transition, “humanitarian needs are growing” including the displacement of “thousands” of people across the country amid a “dire food security situation”.

“During this critical time for Syria, WFP teams are on the ground ensuring that the country’s most vulnerable people receive the urgent food assistance they need,” said WFP’s Syria Country Director Kenn Crossley.

“Right now, commercial supply routes are compromised, food prices are soaring, and the Syrian currency is depreciating. Essential items such as rice, sugar and oil are in short supply and bread prices have spiked, making it critically important that we scale-up our efforts to assist during this winter season.”