Beirut, Lebanon (Enmaeya News) — A recent report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), in partnership with Lebanon’s Ministry of Agriculture, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Food Programme (WFP), shows that roughly 1.17 million Lebanese are experiencing acute food insecurity or crisis conditions between April and June 2025.

While this marks an improvement from earlier in the year, the progress remains fragile and could easily be reversed without sustained aid.

The report credits the short-term improvement to reduced conflict, a maintained ceasefire, increased temporary food assistance, and partial recovery in local markets. Still, Lebanon faces ongoing challenges including persistent inflation, economic stagnation, deteriorating agricultural infrastructure, and insufficient humanitarian funding.

Regions most affected include Bekaa, Jabal Amel, Tyre, and Nabatieh. High malnutrition rates were also reported among Syrian and Palestinian refugees.

The IPC warns food insecurity could worsen again between July and October 2025, with needs rising to 1.24 million people, about 23% of the analyzed population. This projection reflects seasonal pressures, continued economic decline — with GDP down 34% since 2019 — and expected cuts in aid.

Minister of Agriculture Nizar Hani called food security “a strategic necessity,” highlighting the importance of IPC data to guide policymaking. He urged greater coordination among government agencies, including Economy, Health, Environment, and Social Affairs, to build sustainable food systems.

Despite modest recovery signs, Lebanon’s food security remains precarious, with long-term investments in agriculture, markets, and aid critical to avoiding a deeper crisis.