JERUSALEM, August 28, 2025 (WAFA) -  World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director Cindy McCain stated that safe and unhindered humanitarian access to reach the most vulnerable families is the top priority at this moment, following her visit to the Gaza Strip, where she witnessed firsthand the immense destruction and deep desperation.

The WFP chief’s visit came just days after an authoritative panel of hunger experts confirmed that famine is present in Gaza City, and is likely to spread by the end of September without an urgent increase in humanitarian aid. “This is just the fifth famine to be confirmed this century,” noted the WFP in a statement.

Two years of conflict have left families displaced, many multiple times, and lacking the basics for survival.

“Gaza is at a breaking point. Desperation is soaring – and I saw it firsthand.” McCain said. “We must urgently be able to revive our vast and trusted network of 200 food distribution points across the Strip, community kitchens and bakeries. It is urgent that the right conditions are in place so we can reach the most vulnerable and save lives.”

The Executive Director went to Deir-al-Balah and Khan Younis areas, where she witnessed the impact of nearly two years of war. In Deir-a-Ballah, she visited a nutrition clinic keeping children alive and met with displaced mothers who shared their daily struggle to survive, including searching for scraps of food, which often yields nothing.

“I met starving children receiving treatment for severe malnutrition – and I saw photos of when they were healthy. Today they are unrecognizable.” McCain said.

According to EFP, last month has seen a moderate increase in the amount of humanitarian and commercial goods entering the Strip. "However, this is well below the amount needed to support two million people, many of whom face extreme hunger."

“We can quickly scale up humanitarian aid to reach the most vulnerable inside Gaza, support the return of all hostages, and lay the foundation for peace and stability.”

T.R.