A danger threatens one million people.. Reasons for "food insecurity" in Lebanon?

The head of the Syndicate of Food Importers in Lebanon, Hani Bahsoli, commented on reports issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme, confirming that warnings of worsening food insecurity amidst the current war are "appropriate," but at the same time offered reassurances regarding the availability of goods in the markets.

A purchasing power crisis, not a commodity availability crisis

Bahsoli explained that the danger threatening more than 1 million and 200 thousand people in Lebanon is not due to a shortage of food supplies, but rather to "the inability to access them." He attributed this to several factors resulting from the war between Israel and Hezbollah, most notably:

• Widespread displacement: Hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes and regions.

• Job loss: The economic cycle stopping in conflict zones and affected work sectors.

• Deteriorating living conditions: Increased economic pressures preventing a large segment of Lebanese from affording the price of food.

Reassurances: Food supplies secured for 90 days

On a reassuring note, Bahsoli confirmed that food supplies in Lebanon are secure, indicating that:

1. Stock availability: Food supplies are abundant in warehouses and with importers.

2. Sufficient for consumption: The current stock is sufficient for the needs of the Lebanese market for a period of up to three months.

3. Supply sustainability: Importers are working at full capacity to ensure the continuous flow of shipments from abroad without interruption.

Continuous coordination with the state

The head of the Syndicate emphasized continuous coordination with the Prime Minister's office and the Ministry of Economy and Trade to manage this strategic file, affirming that efforts are unified to ensure food security despite the security and logistical challenges imposed by the war.

Conclusion: Lebanon does not suffer from a shortage of food supplies, but rather from a humanitarian and economic crisis that weakens citizens' purchasing power, which requires international and local intervention to assist displaced persons and the most affected groups.