Beirut: The Government of Lebanon, in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has initiated an emergency cash assistance program aimed at supporting families affected by recent conflicts. This move comes in response to the increasing mass displacement occurring throughout the country.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the first round of this cash assistance will benefit nearly 50,000 families, which translates to approximately 183,000 individuals, helping them address their most pressing needs. Families impacted by the crisis, who are not currently registered in existing aid systems, will have the opportunity to register their information through a government-managed platform, which will be made available through official channels shortly.

The established system, bolstered by WFP's technical support, is designed to ensure that aid reaches vulnerable households swiftly during crises. The activation of cash assistance is a direct response to the rising hostilities in Lebanon, enabling families to secure their immediate food necessities while seeking safety.

Prior to this latest escalation, Lebanon was already facing numerous challenges, including economic instability and lingering effects from previous conflicts. A recent food security analysis revealed that 874,000 individuals were already experiencing acute food insecurity, a figure expected to rise, leaving many families susceptible to further disruptions.

In addition to the cash assistance program, WFP has been addressing the increasing displacement by providing hot meals, ready-to-eat rations, and bread. Since the escalation on Monday, WFP has reached 40,000 individuals, working in coordination with national authorities and humanitarian partners.

Anne Valand, WFP Representative and acting Country Director in Lebanon, emphasized the importance of the national social safety net and immediate food assistance in supporting families during these challenging times. The emergency cash assistance will be delivered through the Government's existing Shock-Responsive Social Safety Net (SRSN), ensuring rapid aid to households impacted by the conflict.

H.E. Dr. Haneen el Sayyed, Minister of Social Affairs in Lebanon, highlighted the swift and dignified approach of the government-led response, which is designed to reach affected households quickly and transparently, in close collaboration with WFP and national response bodies.

WFP maintains its coordination with the Government of Lebanon, including the Ministry of Social Affairs and national disaster response authorities, to support families affected by the ongoing escalation. The organization has also pre-positioned food stocks in the country, remaining prepared to scale up assistance as humanitarian needs continue to develop.