Gaza families fear losing their last lifeline after WFP aid cuts

Palestinian families displaced by the Gaza war are facing the loss of their primary source of sustenance due to the World Food Programme (WFP) cutting food and cash assistance to around 500,000 people. The WFP announced the cuts on Monday, citing a lack of funding. This decision has left families who have already lost their homes and livelihoods fearing that they will have no means of survival.

Ahmed Al Haj, a 53-year-old living in a displacement camp in southern Gaza, has relied on WFP aid for nearly two years, receiving a monthly payment of 1,250 Israeli shekels (about $380). This financial support has become his family's main source of survival amidst the destruction of their home and livelihood during the war. When informed of the impending cuts, Al Haj expressed deep concern, stating that he fears his assistance will be cut off, leaving his family without any source of income.

Similar fears are shared by other displaced Palestinians, who depend on humanitarian assistance to meet their most basic needs amid high unemployment and the destruction of businesses. The WFP announced that the number of Palestinians receiving monthly assistance will decrease from 1.6 million to 1.1 million, with families receiving fewer food parcels, smaller bags of wheat flour, and reduced hot meals. Cash assistance to 75,000 families has also been cut.

The WFP reported receiving significantly less funding for its operations in Gaza and the West Bank in 2026 compared to previous years, requiring $400 million to maintain programs over the next six months. Amid an estimated 1.4 million people in Gaza facing acute food insecurity, the WFP warns that its aid reductions could reverse recent gains in food security.

Aid lorries carrying supplies to Gaza residents have sharply decreased in recent weeks, and community kitchens that provided free meals have ceased operations, leaving many at risk of further hunger and economic instability.