The United Nations warned on Wednesday that more than 95 percent of Gaza’s agricultural land has become unusable. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlighted the severe impact of ongoing conflict on local food production.
Israeli attacks on farmland, wells, and greenhouses have intensified an already critical risk of famine in the region. The destruction of irrigation systems has made it nearly impossible for farmers to maintain crops.
The FAO stressed that the destruction goes beyond immediate damage. Long-term soil contamination, water shortages, and infrastructure collapse threaten Gaza’s agricultural sustainability for years to come.
Local farmers report losing nearly all of their seasonal crops. The inability to grow food has forced many families to rely entirely on aid for survival.
Greenhouses, once a source of vegetables and income, have been demolished or rendered unusable. The loss of these facilities reduces both local food supply and employment opportunities in agriculture.
Wells that previously provided essential irrigation water have been damaged or contaminated, limiting access to water for crops and livestock. The FAO called for urgent repairs and protection of water infrastructure.
Experts warn that Gaza’s reliance on food imports has grown dangerously high. With local production nearly halted, the population is increasingly vulnerable to supply disruptions.
The destruction of farmland has disproportionately affected small-scale farmers. Many of these farmers lack the financial resources to recover or invest in alternative livelihoods.
FAO representatives stressed that international humanitarian assistance must prioritize agricultural recovery alongside emergency food aid. Restoring farmland is essential to prevent long-term dependency on imports.
The agency noted that soil degradation and unexploded ordnance present ongoing challenges for returning farming operations to productivity. Safe land management is critical to avoid further casualties.
Famine risk in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels. Families living in affected areas are experiencing severe food insecurity, malnutrition, and heightened health risks.
Children are among the most vulnerable. Malnutrition rates have already increased, with health experts warning of lasting developmental impacts if food access is not restored.
The UN emphasized that protection of agricultural infrastructure must be included in conflict negotiations. Maintaining access to farmland and water is vital for civilian survival.
FAO officials have called for urgent international support to repair greenhouses, rehabilitate wells, and restore irrigation networks. Delays could lead to irreversible food shortages.
Aid agencies stress that food assistance alone cannot address the crisis. Sustainable solutions require restoring Gaza’s ability to grow crops locally.
The FAO report highlights that nearly every type of crop grown in Gaza, from vegetables to cereals, has been impacted. The disruption threatens the local economy and overall food security.
Livestock farming has also been severely affected. Water scarcity and destruction of feed supplies have led to significant losses in animal populations.
The UN warned that without immediate intervention, Gaza could face one of the most severe famines in recent history. Both emergency relief and long-term agricultural rehabilitation are necessary.
International organizations are coordinating with local authorities to assess damage and implement recovery programs. Prioritizing agricultural land restoration is essential to prevent further humanitarian deterioration.
The FAO concluded that the crisis in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of agricultural systems in conflict zones. Urgent international cooperation is required to safeguard food security and protect civilian livelihoods.
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