Rome, June 17 (SANA)The World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a new U.S. contribution of $800 million to support its humanitarian and relief operations in some of the world’s most vulnerable countries.

The Rome-based agency said the funding would support “life-saving operations” and help deliver food assistance to more than 38 million vulnerable people in around 37 countries, according to AFP.

TheWFPsaid it is facing growing financial pressure amid declining funding levels and rising humanitarian needs worldwide. Earlier this month, the agency warned of a severe shortage of available resources as crises continue to expand.

According to WFP data, contributions reached about $10 billion in 2024 before falling to around $6 billion last year, affecting the agency’s ability to expand its humanitarian response.

The programme said it is operating in an increasingly challenging environment marked by rising aid delivery costs and logistical difficulties in several regions, including those affected by the consequences of the war in theMiddle East.

Acting Executive Director Carl Skau said the U.S. contribution comes at a “critical moment” as the gap between growing humanitarian needs and available resources continues to widen.

The WFP aims to assist around 110 million vulnerable people this year and requires an estimated $13 billion to sustain its core operations.F.J./M.Z.

TagsWorld Food ProgrammeUnited StatesHumanitarian AidCarl Skau