FAO Reports Severe Damage to Gaza’s Agricultural Sector Amid Israeli Conflict

Gaza City: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has reported that 75% of Gaza Strip's agricultural fields, including those used for growing crops and olive groves, have been damaged or destroyed amid ongoing Israeli military actions. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, FAO's assessment highlights that over two-thirds of the agricultural wells in the region are no longer operational, resulting in an acute shortage of irrigation water. The report further reveals alarming livestock losses of 96%, a near-total halt in milk production, and a drastic reduction of poultry to only 1% of its previous capacity. The fishing sector is also nearing collapse, contributing to an escalating food insecurity crisis. The FAO emphasized that the ceasefire in Gaza presents a crucial opportunity to tackle the severe food crisis by providing emergency aid and initiating early recovery measures. The organization stressed the urgent need for assistance as more than two million res idents face dire consequences from the agricultural collapse. Antoine Renard, Director of the World Food Program in Palestine, stated that efforts are underway to reach displaced individuals returning to their homes in Gaza. The World Food Program has successfully operated 13 bakeries in southern Gaza, prepared hot meals, and distributed ready-to-eat meals to families in shelters, aiming to alleviate the immediate food shortages.