Hunger Crisis May Be Immense in Western Mountains of Libya

As the fighting continues to rage in Libya between rebels and Gadhafi's regime, the humanitarian crisis is also deepening. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is not able to access all parts of the country to reach those trapped by the conflict. Funding for the relief mission is also running out.

Josette Sheeran, the director of WFP, said yesterday that "Fighting is blocking access to the Western Mountains of Libya" and that the "food needs could be immense."

Sheeran added, "I am appealing to all parties for safe access and for an immediate ceasefire, so that we are able to assess the humanitarian situation and deliver food assistance. "

Areas of Libya where WFP had opened up supply routes are also at risk. In the port of Misrata, shelling by regime forces is threatening WFP's ability to bring in more food to the country. NATO reported yesterday that its warships "thwarted an attack on the port of Misrata by a number of fast small boats."

Also, WFP is facing a funding shortage due to lack of international donations. The relief mission in Libya needs at least 42 million dollars in order to feed war victims inside the country and also those who have fled into neighboring Tunisia. So far only 46 percent of the required funding has been received.

Pipeline breaks in relief supplies may follow, leaving devastating consequences for Libyans. WFP relies on voluntary funding from governments and the public. However, the UN agency is facing a shortfall for its Libya mission as well as many others around the globe.

For additional information visit the World Food Programme web site.