REVELATION 10:5-6And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, THAT THERE SHOULD BE TIME NO LONGER:
Jeremiah 30:7 Alas! for THAT DAY IS GREAT, SO THAT NONE IS LIKE IT: IT IS EVEN THE TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE, but he [Israel’s Believing Remnant at the end of the seven year tribulation} shall be saved out of it.
Revelation 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from THE HOUR OF TEMPTATION, WHICH SHALL COME UPON ALL THE WORLD, TO TRY THEM THAT DWELL UPON THE EARTH.
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! FOR THE DEVIL IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU, HAVING GREAT WRATH, BECAUSE HE KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME.
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY GHOST:
And I saw heaven opened, and BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE; AND HE THAT SAT UPON HIM WAS CALLED FAITHFUL AND TRUE, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and UNDERSTAND THAT I AM HE: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.
Isaiah 52:6 Therefore my people shall know my name: therefore THEY SHALL KNOW IN THAT DAY THAT I AM HE THAT DOTH SPEAK: BEHOLD, IT IS I.
Luke 21:28 And WHEN THESE THINGS BEGIN TO COME TO PASS, THEN LOOK UP, AND LIFT UP YOUR HEADS; FOR YOUR REDEMPTION DRAWETH NIGH.
In His Service,
Night Watchman
Paul Rolland
Night Watchman Ministries
Make Your (7) Decision for Christ NOW!!!!!!! Time is Up!!!!!!!
Jesus Christ’s Offer of Salvation:
The ABCs (7) of Salvation through Jesus Christ (the Lamb)
- (7) Admit/Acknowledge/Accept that you are sinner. Ask (7) God’s forgiveness and repent of your sins.
. . . “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).
. . . “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10).
. . . “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1 John 1:8).
B. Believe Jesus is Lord. Believe that (7) Jesus Christ is who He claimed to (7) be; that He was both fully God (7) and fully man and that we are (7) saved through His death, burial, and resurrection. (7) Put your trust in Him as your (7) only hope of salvation. Become a son (7) or daughter of God by receiving Christ. (7777777) 7×7
. . . “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world; but have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:15-17). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13).
C. Call upon His name, Confess (7) with your heart and with your lips (7) that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.
. . . “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- THE BLACK HORSEMAN
- KSRELIEF WINS GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
- SAUDI ARABIA ADVOCATES FOR GLOBAL COOPERATION TO END HUNGER, ENSURE FOOD SECURITY
- SAUDI ARABIA LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO BOOST WHEAT, BARLEY PRODUCTIVITY
- HOW CLIMATE CHANGE IS EXACERBATING FOOD INSECURITY, WITH DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES FOR IMPORT-RELIANT MIDDLE EAST
- UPDATE: HOW IS THE WAR IN UKRAINE AFFECTING GLOBAL FOOD PRICES?
- HALVING FOOD WASTE CAN REDUCE HUNGER FOR 153 MILLION PEOPLE: REPORT
- KSRELIEF EXPANDS AID TO CRISIS ZONES WORLDWIDE
- KSRELIEF DELIVERS WINTER AID AND DATES TO YEMEN’S VULNERABLE
- SAUDI AGENCY KSRELIEF DELIVERS FOOD, HYGIENE KITS IN SYRIA
- SAUDI AID AGENCY KSRELIEF CONTINUES GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS
- KINGDOM ‘DOUBLING AID EFFORTS’ IN SUDAN, KSRELIEF CHIEF TELLS UN
- FARMERS SOUND THE ALARM AS PANTRY STAPLE CROP BECOMES INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO GROW: ‘PRODUCTION IS AT SERIOUS RISK’
- ‘A HARBINGER OF WHAT’S TO COME:’ NASA SATELLITES SHOW MASSIVE DROP IN GLOBAL FRESHWATER LEVELS
- 2024 ‘VIRTUALLY CERTAIN’ TO BE HOTTEST YEAR ON RECORD: EU MONITOR
- CLIMATE CHANGE IS A KEY DRIVER OF WORLDWIDE HUNGER, ACCORDING TO IFAD
- NEARLY 100 FOOD AID TRUCKS VIOLENTLY LOOTED IN GAZA, UN AGENCIES SAY
- LOOTING DEEPENS GAZA MISERY AS FAMINE LOOMS
- GAZANS SCRAMBLE FOR FOOD DAYS AFTER AID TRUCKS WERE LOOTED
- CLIMATE CHANGE IS MAKING TEMPERATURES DEADLIER, FOOD LESS RELIABLE, EXPERTS WARN
- RUSSIA IS LOCKING UP BUTTER AS INFLATION CRISIS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS
- THOUSANDS OF UK FARMERS DESCEND ON PARLIAMENT TO PROTEST A TAX THEY SAY WILL RUIN FAMILY FARMS
- G20 TAKES ON HUNGER
- BRAZIL LAUNCHES GLOBAL ANTI-HUNGER ALLIANCE BEFORE G20 SUMMIT
- SAUDI ARABIA HIGHLIGHTS GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS AT G20 PARLIAMENTARY SUMMIT IN BRAZIL
- FAMINE-HIT SUDAN CAMP GETS FIRST AID CONVOY IN MONTHS
- MAJORITY OF SOUTH SUDANESE WILL BE FOOD INSECURE NEXT YEAR: UN
- SOUTH SUDAN FLOODS AFFECT 1.4 MILLION, DISPLACE 379,000: UN
- UN SENDS EMERGENCY FOOD AID FOR ONE MILLION LEBANESE
- GAZA MOTHER STRUGGLING TO FEED CHILDREN SAYS ONLY DEATH CAN END THEIR SUFFERING
- SAUDI AID CONTINUES TO REACH THOUSANDS IN GAZA, LEBANON
- SAUDI ARABIA CONTINUES RELIEF OPERATIONS IN LEBANON
- MILLIONS OF NIGERIANS GO HUNGRY AS FLOODS COMPOUND HARDSHIP
- FAMINE LOOMING IN MYANMAR’S RAKHINE STATE: UN
- WORLD MUST BE PREPARED FOR MYANMAR’S ECONOMIC COLLAPSE
- AMID WAR AND DEEP HUNGER, GAZA FISHERMAN STRUGGLE TO FEED FAMILIES
- KSRELIEF CONTINUES HUMANITARIAN OUTREACH IN JORDAN, AFGHANISTAN AND LEBANON
- KSRELIEF DISTRIBUTES AID TO MOST NEEDY IN LEBANON, CHAD AND SYRIA
- KSRELIEF CONTINUES HUMANITARIAN WORK IN GAZA, JORDAN AND YEMEN
- KSRELIEF CONTINUES INTERNATIONAL RELIEF EFFORTS IN CHAD, PAKISTAN
- MARK OF THE BEAST: INFRARED QR CODE, MICRONEEDLE VACCINATION SMART PATCH MARK
- FIVE-FOLD SINS RESULTING IN MEN’S ETERNAL DAMNATION
- 12 REFERENCES TO JUDGE / JUDGING / JUDGEMENT
- THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT
- SEVEN-FOLD REFERENCE TO LAKE OF FIRE JUDGEMEN
The increasing tensions, military conflicts, and humanitarian crises that the world is currently facing hinder the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, Prince Faisal said, adding that development and prosperity cannot be realized amidst death and destruction.
Prince Faisal also addressed the situation in Sudan, stating that the conflict there is causing significant humanitarian suffering, particularly due to the obstacles preventing the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need.
‘GLOBAL COALITION AGAINST HUNGER AND POVERTY’
During his speech, the foreign minister announced that SAUDI ARABIA WOULD BE JOINING THE “GLOBAL COALITION AGAINST HUNGER AND POVERTY,” LAUNCHED BY BRAZIL, ADDING THAT THE KINGDOM VIEWS IT AS AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARD ADDRESSING GLOBAL FOOD INSECURITY.
THE COALITION ALSO ALIGNS WITH SAUDI ARABIA’S DEVELOPMENTAL GOALS AND ITS GLOBAL ROLE IN THE FIELD, AS DEMONSTRATED BY THE INITIATIVES OF THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER, THE SAUDI FUND FOR DEVELOPMENT, AS WELL AS ITS GLOBAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND AND WORLD BANK PROGRAMS SUPPORTING DEVELOPING NATIONS, he said.
KSRELIEF WINS GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Delano Roosevelt, CEO of National Council on US-Arab Relations, presents the award to the supervisor general of KSrelief, Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, in Washington.
Updated 14 November 2024 Arab News November 14, 202416:38
WASHINGTON: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief was honored with the GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD BY THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON US-ARAB RELATIONS, IN RECOGNITION OF RELIEF EFFORTS THAT HAVE MADE A SUBSTANTIAL IMPACT IN CRISIS REGIONS AROUND THE WORLD.
Delano Roosevelt, the council’s second president and CEO, presented the award to the supervisor general of KSrelief, Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, in Washington, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Dr. Al-Rabeeah said the award is an INTERNATIONAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF SAUDI ARABIA’S LEADING ROLE IN RELIEF EFFORTS.
He underlined the KINGDOM’S COMMITMENT TO ASSISTING PEOPLE IN NEED, SUPPORTING THOSE AFFECTED BY CRISES, AND ASSISTING REFUGEES WHEREVER POSSIBLE.
He also affirmed that SAUDI ARABIA HAS CONSISTENTLY BEEN A LEADER IN CHARITABLE AND HUMANITARIAN INITIATIVES AND IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF DONOR COUNTRIES ON REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL FRONTS.
SAUDI ARABIA ADVOCATES FOR GLOBAL COOPERATION TO END HUNGER, ENSURE FOOD SECURITY
Updated 08 November 2024 Arab News November 08, 202417:07
RIYADH: The Kingdom sees agriculture as a cornerstone for achieving sustainable development and supporting economic growth, Saudi Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Mansour bin Hilal Al-Mushaiti said this week.
Al-Mushaiti led the SAUDI DELEGATION TO THE THREE-DAY “A WORLD WITHOUT HUNGER” CONFERENCE that began on Tuesday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
During his conference speech, Al-Mushaiti said that agriculture also played a key role in job creation and prosperity for local communities. This came through the strengthening of farmer support systems and the promotion of modern agricultural practices to INCREASE PRODUCTION AND IMPROVE EFFICIENCY, ULTIMATELY ACHIEVING FOOD SECURITY.
“The significant progress made in science, innovation and modern technologies has contributed to addressing many urgent global food challenges,” Al-Mushaiti said. “However, the advancement achieved in ENHANCING FOOD SECURITY remains insufficient. This underscores the crucial importance of INTENSIFYING GLOBAL EFFORTS AND ACTIVATING POLICIES TO DEVELOP PRACTICAL AND EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS.”
The deputy minister said that DIRECT FOOD AID AND HUMANITARIAN RELIEF EFFORTS HAD PLAYED A KEY ROLE IN PROVIDING SHORT-TERM SOLUTIONS TO FOOD INSECURITY IN MANY COUNTRIES. HE SAID THAT THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER HAD IMPLEMENTED ABOUT 900 FOOD SECURITY PROJECTS IN 78 COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE, REFLECTING THE KINGDOM’S HUMANITARIAN ROLE AND SUPPORT FOR PEOPLES FACING SEVERE CONDITIONS.
Al-Mushaiti said that boosting investment in the agriculture and food sectors had become PARAMOUNT TO BUILDING A WORLD FREE OF HUNGER. This could be achieved through adopting innovation and modern farming techniques, as well as providing flexible financing solutions to increase production and build resilience in agricultural and food systems.
“THE KINGDOM WELCOMES AGRICULTURAL INVESTMENTS IN ALL FIELDS AND OFFERS INCENTIVES AND SUPPORT FOR INVESTORS GLOBALLY,” Al-Mushaaiti said. “We seek to expand agricultural investment in countries with competitive advantages, abundant natural resources and growing markets, to leverage integrated agricultural capabilities and CREATE MORE JOB OPPORTUNITIES TOWARD ACHIEVING FOOD SECURITY.”
Al-Mushaaiti stressed the NEED TO STRENGTHEN MULTILATERAL INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AND ENGAGEMENT WITH GLOBAL ORGANIZATIONS, in addition to promoting fair trade in line with WTO standards. This, he said, would contribute to building a world free of hunger, alongside other essential steps such as exchanging best agricultural practices and technologies, expanding access to innovative financing, and ENHANCING INFRASTRUCTURE AND SOCIAL SAFETY NET PROGRAMS.
Al-Mushaiti said that the Kingdom had taken several steps in this direction. This included launching programs and initiatives such as the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program, which contributed to increasing the income of small-scale farmers and improving their living standards, and the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority“Monsha’at” Authority to support micro, small and medium enterprises in the sector, through financing, training and job opportunities, and other ambitious projects and programs that worked to support the agricultural sector and activate its contribution to achieving food security.
THE “A WORLD WITHOUT HUNGER” CONFERENCE WAS ORGANIZED BY THE UNITED NATIONS INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION, THE AFRICAN UNION COMMISSION AND THE ETHIOPIAN GOVERNMENT, WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UN, TO DISCUSS TOPICS RELATED TO THE AGRICULTURE, FOOD PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY SECTORS, AS WELL AS FOOD SECURITY, FINANCE, FOOD SAFETY, INFRASTRUCTURE AND MORE.
SAUDI ARABIA LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO BOOST WHEAT, BARLEY PRODUCTIVITY
Updated 17 April 2024 ARAB NEWS April 17, 202412:40
RIYADH: SAUDI ARABIA’S WHEAT AND BARLEY PRODUCTION IS SET TO STRENGTHEN, thanks to a new program aimed at inventorying 903 plant genetic resources from fruit trees.
The process of PGR entails collecting and documenting the genetic material of plants valuable for both present and future generations.
It is integral to agro-biodiversity, covering crops, livestock, and related species, and serves as the CORNERSTONE OF FOOD, AGRICULTURE, AND NUTRITIONAL SECURITY. Launched by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW PROGRAM IS BASED ON THREE AXES, according to a statement.
THE FIRST INCLUDES INVENTORY, PURIFICATION, AND EVALUATION OF LOCAL VARIETIES, WHILE THE SECOND ENTAILS COOPERATION WITH INTERNATIONAL BODIES. MEANWHILE, THE THIRD AXIS INCLUDES IMPLEMENTING A REGIONAL BREEDING PROGRAM.
This move falls in line with the ministry’s vision to achieve sustainability of the environment and natural resources, ensuring water security, contributing to food protection, and improving the quality of life in the Kingdom.
Moreover, the commencement of the program involved the application to register FIVE VARIETIES OF SOFT BREAD WHEAT AND DURUM PASTA WHEAT, including three local varieties and two new ones to the Kingdom.
Additionally, the program encompassed the identification of 52 promising strains of soft wheat and 45 promising strains of durum wheat, which are currently in the final evaluation stages for this season. The ministry anticipates that a significant number of these strains will be selected and registered next year.
Furthermore, a total of 215 genetic resources of field crops and 17 genetic resources of vegetable crops were also identified.
In addition, the Seed and Seedling Center disclosed that out of the 903 plant genetic resources, 159 are located in Jazan, 252 in Al-Baha, and 130 in Asir. Moreover, 247 resources are found in Eastern Province, 50 in Riyadh, and 65 in Medinah.
THIS UNDERSCORES THE COMPREHENSIVE GENETIC FINGERPRINTING BEING CONDUCTED FOR ALL GENETIC RESOURCES IN THE KINGDOM, INCLUDING WHEAT, BARLEY, COFFEE, SESAME, AND OTHERS.
This will help to identify similarities and differences between samples of a single VARIETY AT THE MOLECULAR LEVEL, DOCUMENT GENETICALLY DISTINCT SAMPLES, standardize the name of the local variety, and publish the outputs in international offices.
The ministry also disclosed the establishment of a database of genetic resources from field and horticultural crops, which includes all associated data and characteristics.
This picture taken on April 6, 2023 shows a view of a failed wheat field during a drought in Medjez el-Bab in northern Tunisia.
Updated 27 July 2024 Nada Alturki July 26, 202423:19
RIYADH: GLOBAL FOOD INSECURITY IS FAR WORSE THAN PREVIOUSLY THOUGHT. THAT IS THE CONCLUSION OF THE STATE OF FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION IN THE WORLD 2024 REPORT PUBLISHED THIS WEEK BY A COALITION OF UN ENTITIES, WHICH FOUND THAT EFFORTS TO TACKLE UNDERNOURISHMENT HAD SUFFERED SERIOUS SETBACKS. AS COUNTRIES ACROSS THE WORLD FALL SIGNIFICANTLY SHORT OF ACHIEVING THE SECOND UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL OF “ZERO HUNGER” BY 2030, THE REPORT NOTES THAT CLIMATE CHANGE IS INCREASINGLY RECOGNIZED AS A PIVOTAL FACTOR EXACERBATING HUNGER AND FOOD INSECURITY.
As a major food importer, THE MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA REGION IS CONSIDERED ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO CLIMATE-INDUCED CROP FAILURES IN SOURCE NATIONS and the resulting imposition of protectionist tariffs and fluctuations in commodity prices.
“CLIMATE CHANGE IS A DRIVER OF FOOD INSECURITY FOR THE MIDDLE EAST, where both the global shock and the local shock matter,” David Laborde, director of the Agrifood Economics and Policy Division at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, told Arab News.
“Now, especially for the Middle East, I think that the global angle is important because THE MIDDLE EAST IS IMPORTING A LOT OF FOOD. Even if you don’t have a (climate) shock at home, if you don’t have a drought or flood at home — if it’s happened in Pakistan, if it’s happened in India, if it’s happened in Canada — the Middle East will feel it.”
The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report has been compiled annually since 1999 by FAO, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the UN Children’s Fund, the World Food Programme, and the World Health Organization to monitor global progress toward ending hunger.
During a recent event at the UN headquarters in New York, the report’s authors emphasized the urgent need for creative and fair solutions to address the financial shortfall for helping THOSE NATIONS EXPERIENCING SEVERE HUNGER AND MALNUTRITION MADE WORSE BY CLIMATE CHANGE. IN ADDITION TO CLIMATE CHANGE, THE REPORT FOUND THAT FACTORS LIKE CONFLICT AND ECONOMIC DOWNTURNS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY FREQUENT AND SEVERE, IMPACTING THE AFFORDABILITY OF A HEALTHY DIET, UNHEALTHY FOOD ENVIRONMENTS, AND INEQUALITY.
In this photo taken on July 2, 2022, Iraqi farmer Bapir Kalkani inspects his wheat farm in the Rania district near the Dukan reservoir, northwest of Iraq’s northeastern city of Sulaimaniyah, which has been experiencing BOUTS OF DROUGHT DUE TO A MIX OF FACTORS INCLUDING LOWER RAINFALL AND DIVERSION OF INFLOWING RIVERS FROM IRAN. (AFP)
INDEED, FOOD INSECURITY AND MALNUTRITION ARE INTENSIFYING DUE TO PERSISTENT FOOD PRICE INFLATION, WHICH HAS UNDERMINED ECONOMIC PROGRESS GLOBALLY.
“There is also an indirect effect that we should not neglect — how CLIMATE SHOCK INTERACTS WITH CONFLICT,” said Laborde.
In North Africa, for example, negative climate shocks can lead to more conflict, “either because people start to compete for natural resources, access to water, or just because you may also have some people in your area that have nothing else to do,” he said.
“There are no jobs, they cannot work on their farm, and so they can join insurgencies or other elements.”
DID YOUKNOW?
UP TO 757 MILLION PEOPLE ENDURED HUNGER IN 2023 — THE EQUIVALENT OF ONE IN 11 WORLDWIDE AND ONE IN FIVE IN AFRICA.
GLOBAL PREVALENCE OF FOOD INSECURITY HAS REMAINED UNCHANGED FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS, despite progress in Latin America.
In late 2021, G20 countries pledged to take $100 billion worth of unused Special Drawing Rights, held in the central banks of high-income countries and allocate them to middle- and low-income countries.
Since then, however, this pledged amount has fallen $13 billion short, with those countries with the worst economic conditions receiving less than 1 percent of this support.
Protesters set out empty plates to protest hunger aimed at G20 finance ministers gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 25, 2024. (AP/Pool)
SAUDI ARABIA IS ONE OF THE COUNTRIES THAT HAS EXCEEDED ITS 20 PERCENT PLEDGE, alongside Australia, Canada, China, France, and Japan, while others have failed to reach 10 percent or have ceased engagement altogether.
“SAUDI ARABIA IS A VERY LARGE STATE IN THE MIDDLE EAST, SO WHAT THEY DO IS IMPORTANT, BUT ALSO THEY HAVE A FINANCIAL CAPACITY THAT MANY OTHER COUNTRIES DON’T,” said Laborde.
“It can be through their SDRs. It can also be through their sovereign fund because where you invest matters and how you invest matters to make the world more sustainable. So, I will say yes, prioritizing investment in low- and middle-income countries on food and security and nutrition-related programs can be important.
Although the prevalence of undernourishment in Saudi Arabia has fallen in recent years, the report shows that the rate of stunting in children has actually increased by 1.4 percent in the past 10 years.
There has also been an increase in the rates of overweight children, obesity, and anemia in women as the population continues to grow. In this sense, it is not so much a lack of food but a dearth of healthy eating habits.
“Saudi Arabia is a good example where I would say traditional hunger and the lack of food … become less and less a problem, but other forms of malnutrition become actually what is important,” said Laborde.
Can you guess what has the highest percentage of waste in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia? No, it is not plastic nor paper but food waste. Food waste forms up to 40-51 % of the waste in the Kingdom followed by paper, cardboard, plastics and others.
UNDP understands that tackling food waste in each country is unique as each case has its own characteristics.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), “an estimated 1/3 of all food produced globally is lost or goes to waste”. Among the biggest food wasters in the world is in the GCC, where Saudi Arabia is one of the highest.
Accordingly, the Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Abdulrahman AlFadley has called for joint efforts to end food waste. Approximately 33% of food is wasted in the Kingdom according to a study by the Saudi Grains Organization conducted in 2019.
In line with THE KINGDOM’S VISION 2030 and efforts to reduce food waste, the Saudi Arabia Accelerator Lab wanted to dive deeper into this phenomenon to better understand who are the players in this ecosystem and where are the areas that could be further explored to find innovative ways to tackle food waste.
IN 2023, SOME 2.33 BILLION PEOPLE WORLDWIDE FACED MODERATE OR SEVERE FOOD INSECURITY, AND ONE IN 11 PEOPLE FACED HUNGER, MADE WORSE BY VARIOUS FACTORS SUCH AS ECONOMIC DECLINE AND CLIMATE CHANGE.
THE AFFORDABILITY OF HEALTHY DIETS IS ALSO A CRITICAL ISSUE, PARTICULARLY IN LOW-INCOME COUNTRIES WHERE MORE THAN 71 PERCENT OF THE POPULATION CANNOT AFFORD ADEQUATE NUTRITION.
In countries like Saudi Arabia where overeating is a rising issue, Laborde suggests that proper investment in nutrition and health education as well as policy adaptation may be the way to go.
WHILE THE KINGDOM CONTINUES TO EXTEND SUPPORT TO COUNTRIES IN CRISIS, INCLUDING PALESTINE, SUDAN, AND YEMEN, THROUGH ITS HUMANITARIAN ARM KSRELIEF, THESE STATES CONTINUE TO GRAPPLE WITH DIRE CONDITIONS. Gaza in particular has suffered as a result of the war with Israel.
A shipment of food aid from Saudi Arabia is loaded on board a cargo vessel at the Jeddah Islamic Port to be delivered to Port Said in Egypt for Palestinians in Gaza. (KSrelief photo)
“Now, something that is true everywhere, in Sudan, in Yemen, in Palestine, WHEN YOU START TO ADD CONFLICT AND MILITARY OPERATIONS, THE POPULATION SUFFERS A LOT BECAUSE YOU CAN ACTUALLY DESTROY PRODUCTION. YOU DESTROY ACCESS TO WATER. BUT PEOPLE ALSO CANNOT GO TO THE GROCERY SHOP WHEN THE TRUCK OR THE SHIP BRINGING FOOD IS DISRUPTED.”
While Palestine and Sudan are the extreme cases, there are still APPROXIMATELY 733 MILLION PEOPLE WORLDWIDE FACING HUNGER, MARKING A CONTINUATION OF THE HIGH LEVELS OBSERVED OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS.
“On the ground, we work with the World Food Programme (and) with other organizations, aimed at bringing food to the people in need in Palestine,” Laborde said of FAO’s work. “Before the conflict and after, we will also be working on rebuilding things that need to be rebuilt. BUT WITHOUT PEACE, THERE ARE LIMITED THINGS WE CAN DO.”
THE REPORT’S PROJECTIONS FOR 2030 SUGGEST THAT AROUND 582 MILLION PEOPLE WILL CONTINUE TO SUFFER FROM CHRONIC UNDERNOURISHMENT, HALF OF THEM IN AFRICA. This mirrors levels observed in 2015 when the SDGs were adopted, indicating a plateau in progress.
THE REPORT EMPHASIZES THE NEED TO CREATE BETTER SYSTEMS OF FINANCIAL DISTRIBUTION AS PER THIS YEAR’S THEME: “FINANCING TO END HUNGER, FOOD INSECURITY AND ALL FORMS OF MALNUTRITION.”
“We have to say that we are not delivering on the promises that policymakers have made. The world today produces enough food, so IT’S MUCH MORE ABOUT HOW WE DISTRIBUTE IT, HOW WE GIVE ACCESS. IT’S A MAN-MADE PROBLEM, AND SO IT SHOULD BE A MAN-MADE SOLUTION.”
UPDATE: HOW IS THE WAR IN UKRAINE AFFECTING GLOBAL FOOD PRICES?
ECONOMICS OBSERVATORY FEBRUARY 23, 2024
The protracted conflict in Ukraine cannot keep food prices rising perpetually. Costs have started receding in the global market, as well as in several advanced economies. But FOOD INFLATION PERSISTS IN MANY DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, LARGELY DUE TO DOMESTIC CHALLENGES THAT GO BEYOND THE RUSSIAN INVASION.
As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine enters its third year, THE HUMANITARIAN EFFECTS ON LIVES AND LIVELIHOODS CONTINUE TO DEEPEN. Although interventions from the United Nations World Food Programme (UN-WFP) and the European Union (EU) have succeeded in pushing global food prices down overall, the effects linger in many developing countries. MANY NATIONS, PARTICULARLY LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME ECONOMIES, ARE STILL TRAPPED IN THE FOOD CRISIS PRECIPITATED BY THE CONFLICT.
UKRAINE, WHICH IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS THE BREADBASKET OF EUROPE, IS A SIGNIFICANT GLOBAL EXPORTER OF AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES, INCLUDING GRAINS AND SUNFLOWER OIL. IT PLAYS A PIVOTAL ROLE IN MEETING THE FOOD DEMANDS OF NUMEROUS NATIONS.
WITH PROLONGED DISRUPTION OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND TRADE ROUTES, THE CONTINUING CONFLICT IN ONE OF THE MOST FERTILE COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD HAS EXACERBATED EXISTING CHALLENGES AND CREATED NEW HURDLES FOR ENSURING ACCESS TO FOOD AND IMPROVED SOCIO-ECONOMIC WELLBEING FOR MILLIONS OF PEOPLE. THE PAIN OF THE FIGHTING EXTENDS FAR BEYOND UKRAINE’S BORDERS.
WHAT IS THE STATE OF FOOD EXPORTING FROM UKRAINE AND RUSSIA?
SHORTAGES REMAIN, TWO YEARS INTO THE WAR. SEVERAL REGIONS THAT ARE DEPENDENT ON AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS FROM UKRAINE STILL FACE REDUCED IMPORTS TO MEET THEIR FOOD NEEDS, AS WELL AS RISING FOOD IMPORT BILLS. For example, besides the EU, MOST REGIONS EXPERIENCED A DIP IN WHEAT IMPORTS FROM 2021/22 TO 2022/23 (see Figure 1). In terms of numbers, South East Asia – one of the largest wheat importers from East European nations – saw the biggest drop in wheat imports from Ukraine.
The story is different with wheat exports from Russia. It appears that some regions are looking to Russia for more wheat to feed their people. Aside from Europe, South East Asia and Southern Africa, other regions for which data are available witnessed a Russian wheat boom. For example, the region of Eastern Asia (where wheat imports from Ukraine fell by about 66%) increased its imports from Russia by 49%.
This trend is highlighted in Figure 2. The chart shows Russia’s total wheat exports trending upwards, while wheat exports from Ukraine continue to trend down. RATHER THAN DIE OF STARVATION OR SUFFER MALNUTRITION DUE TO A WAR, COUNTRIES (PRIMARILY LOW-INCOME ECONOMIES) SIMPLY ‘FOLLOW THE FOOD’ TO STAY ALIVE.
Whether this pattern is replicable for other food products remains to be seen. The picture will become clearer when the World Trade Organization (WTO) releases updated data for other grain commodities (such as maize). What we do know is that with Russian boots occupying Ukraine’s farmlands, the latter’s grain exports, which declined by 24% in 2023/24, are expected to continue to fall further in 2024/25. This suggests that the pattern shown in Figure 2 is likely to persist.
How have food prices changed?
THE LACK OF AVAILABILITY OF FOOD, AND INSTABILITY AROUND ITS SUPPLY, WILL MAKE MORE PEOPLE ‘FOOD-INSECURE’. THIS WILL BRING WITH IT WIDER HEALTH AND SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES, SUCH AS MEDICAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH MALNUTRITION AS WELL AS SOCIAL UNREST AND CRIME.
It is projected that almost 600 million people will be chronically undernourished in 2030 if the war is sustained, with Africa – home to some of the world’s poorest and most hungry populations – hit the hardest. This is around 23 million more people than if the war in Ukraine had not happened. Beyond the vast casualties seen in Mariupol, Kherson and Kharkiv, THE HUMAN COST OF THE WAR IS SPREADING.
Instability in Ukrainian agricultural markets is also manifested in food price fluctuations. Although global food and fuel prices have receded from their peak levels at the inception of the conflict in February 2022, they remain high compared with pre-conflict levels (see Figure 3). Notably, as of December 2023, food and grain prices are still roughly 12-13% above their December 2020 levels. PRICE VOLATILITY AFFECTS IMPORTING COUNTRIES, PARTICULARLY THOSE WITH VULNERABLE POPULATIONS OR LIMITED FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO ABSORB SUDDEN RISES IN FOOD BILLS.
Comparing developed and developing economies over the years in which the war has raged, there is a divergence between how domestic food prices have responded to the sluggish downward trend in international markets. Food price inflation (sometime referred to as ‘food-flation’) is easing off in many advanced economies like the UK and the United States, but it is rising elsewhere. This is especially true in more fragile economies (see Figure 4).
Investigating and addressing the causes of this divergence would help to solve some aspects of FOOD INSECURITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, WHERE CITIZENS ARE TAKING TO THE STREETS IN MAJOR CITIES LIKE KANO, NIGERIA, IN PROTEST AGAINST RISING FOOD COSTS. Not only do food price changes vary across different economies, there are also differences in the effects of price fluctuations on people’s wellbeing. Households in rich economies spend a smaller proportion of their income on food than THOSE IN LOW-INCOME ECONOMIES, WHERE AN AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SPENDS MORE THAN HALF OF ITS WAGES ON FOOD. HIGHER FOOD PRICES IN SUCH REGIONS CAUSE A GREATER STRAIN ON HOUSEHOLD BUDGETS, EXACERBATING POVERTY AND FOOD INSECURITY IN ALREADY VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES.
Source: Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) Food Price Monitoring and Analysis, 2024
How has the termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative affected food security?
There was a brief respite from escalating prices thanks to the UN-brokered ‘Black Sea Grain Initiative’ (BSGI). This policy allowed for the safe passage of Ukraine’s grain exports through three ports: Chornomorsk, Odesa and Yuzhny/Pivdennyi. But the BSGI collapsed in July 2023, with Russia pulling out of the agreement a year after it was first signed. The BSGI facilitated about 20% of Ukraine’s wheat exports getting to developing countries, and its collapse could prove catastrophic.
Alternative trade routes are either expensive or problematic. Disruptions to the Red Sea shipping route – due to recent attacks by Yemen-based Houthi rebels – have reduced trade volumes in the Suez Canal by about 40% (according to a report in The Economist).
DISTURBANCES TO THESE TRADE ROUTES INTERRUPT SUPPLY CHAINS, RAISING THE COSTS OF SHIPPING AND WAREHOUSING. THESE COSTS ARE OFTEN PASSED ON TO CONSUMERS, PUTTING PRESSURE ON DOMESTIC FOOD PRICES AND REDUCING PRODUCERS’ PROFITS. AS FIGHTING INTENSIFIES AND SPREADS, AND FURTHER CONFLICTS BUBBLE UP, MORE AND MORE PEOPLE STAND TO LOSE OUT.
Since the annulment of the BSGI, of which many food-insecure countries were huge beneficiaries, the UN reports that RUSSIA’S ATTACKS ON UKRAINE’S PORTS AND EXPORT FACILITIES HAVE SEEN THE DESTRUCTION OF ABOUT 60,000 METRIC TONNES OF GRAINS – ENOUGH TO FEED ABOUT 270,000 PEOPLE A YEAR. That is more than the combined population of the Seychelles and Kiribati.
What is happening to fuel prices?
Fuel prices influence food prices, especially in monocultural, oil-dependent countries like Nigeria. But increases in energy prices in the international market triggered by sanctions on Russian oil appear to have tapered off (see Figure 3). This comes at a time when there are concerns that the Israel-Hamas war in the Middle East will resuscitate energy price spikes.
But a report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggests that the initial surge in oil prices that followed the start of the fighting in Gaza was due to investor speculations and not to disruptions in production. With continued supply, oil prices are now relatively stable. Unlike the sharp rise in prices that followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year, the warring parties in the Middle East conflict are not significant oil producers.
So, fossil fuel price escalation is not the main driver of the current food-flation. With stable oil prices in the global market, the food inflation still being experienced in many countries is mainly due to issues with food production, processing and pricing, as well as inappropriate or ill-timed economic policies in individual countries.
For example, the unpopular removal of fuel subsidies by the Nigerian government in 2023 quadrupled food prices – an impact far greater than the original effect of the conflict in Ukraine.
What next?
Beyond immediate disruptions, the persistent conflict may have long-term consequences for agricultural productivity in Ukraine and other affected regions. DAMAGE TO INFRASTRUCTURE, MILITARY OCCUPATION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND, COSTLY MOVEMENT OF AGRICULTURAL GOODS, AND DISPLACEMENT OF FARMERS COULD IMPEDE FUTURE PRODUCTION CAPACITY, PROLONGING THE RECOVERY PROCESS (AS REPORTED BY THE IMF) AND EXERTING SUSTAINED PRESSURE ON LOCAL FOOD MARKETS.
IN THE ABSENCE OF A MIRACLE, UKRAINE’S PRODUCTION AND EXPORT OUTLOOKS LOOK BLEAK. THE COUNTRY HAS ALREADY LOST THREE PLANTING SEASONS TO WAR. WITHOUT URGENT INTERVENTIONS, PRODUCTION AND EXPORTS WILL KEEP DROPPING FROM THEIR 2022/23 LEVELS.
More prosperous economies appear to be successful in adapting to and mitigating the food impact of the war in Ukraine. But MANY DEVELOPING AND EMERGING ECONOMIES ARE STILL GRAPPLING WITH THE FOOD CRISIS PROBLEM. JUST LIKE COVID-19, THE ISSUE OF FOOD INSECURITY SHOULD BE A GLOBAL CONCERN, AS ‘HUNGER IN ONE COUNTRY IS A THREAT TO OTHER COUNTRIES’.
Concerted efforts must be made to support struggling countries. After all, ACHIEVING A WORLD FREE FROM HUNGER AND MALNUTRITION IS ONE OF THE UN’S SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDG 2). CONFLICTS AROUND THE WORLD ARE A DANGEROUS THREAT TO MEETING THIS TARGET.
The current food crisis presents an opportunity to learn some vital lessons. Countries that are heavily reliant on Ukrainian grains, such as wheat and corn, must intensify their diversification and self-sufficiency efforts. They could seek alternative suppliers to mitigate potential shortages, as well as creating a secure and business-friendly environment and policies that would allow for foreign direct investment into their own agricultural sectors to chart a course for self-sufficiency in the production of basic food staples.
While the outcome of the war in Ukraine is far beyond the control of many developing and emerging economies, how they react to sustained food shortages is not. An active policy response with international support is vital to protect the most vulnerable households around the world.
The war has claimed many lives already. Keeping the tally of victims of food shortages down to a minimum should be a critical concern for policy-makers worldwide.
Where can I find out more?
The World Trade Organization regularly releases real-time datasets showing trends and directions of agricultural exports and imports worldwide.
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) hosts a blog series where the impact of global phenomena like the war in Ukraine on food systems is routinely discussed.
The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) has a Food Price Monitoring and Analysis (FPMA) Tool that monitors and analyses food prices in domestic and international markets.
HALVING FOOD WASTE CAN REDUCE HUNGER FOR 153 MILLION PEOPLE: REPORT
A woman sells fruit at a street market in the Villa Fatima neighborhood of La Paz. (AFP)
Updated 02 July 2024 AFP July 02, 202409:00
PARIS: Halving food waste could cut climate-warming emissions and end undernourishment for 153 million people globally, the OECD and the UN’s food agency said in a joint report Tuesday. Around a third of food produced for human consumption gets lost or wasted globally, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization — resulting in useless emissions and less available food for those who need it.
By 2033, the number of calories lost and wasted between produce leaving farms and reaching shops and households could be more than twice the number of calories currently consumed in low-income countries in a year, the report warned. Cutting in two the amount of food lost and wasted along the journey from farm to fork “has the potential to reduce global agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by four percent and the number of undernourished people by 153 million by the year 2030,” according to the report.
“This target is a highly ambitious upper bound and would require substantial changes by both consumers and producer side,” they added. Agriculture, forestry and other land use account for around one-fifth of global human-induced greenhouse gas emissions.
UN nations have committed to cutting per capita food waste by 50 percent by 2030 as part of sustainable development goals but there is no global target for reducing food loss along the production supply chain. Between 2021 and 2023, fruit and vegetables accounted for more than half of the lost and wasted food given their extremely perishable nature and relatively short shelf life, according to the report.
Cereals followed, accounting for over a quarter of lost and wasted food. The FAO estimates that approximately 600 million people will be facing hunger in 2030.
“Measures to reduce food loss and waste could significantly increase food intake worldwide as more food becomes available and prices fall, ensuring greater access to food for low-income populations,” the report said. Halving food loss and waste by 2030 could result in increased food intake by 10 percent for low-income countries, six percent in lower middle-income nations and four percent in upper middle-income ones, it added.
KSRELIEF EXPANDS AID TO CRISIS ZONES WORLDWIDE
The 23rd Saudi plane carrying aid for Lebanese people has landed on Wednesday at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. (SPA)
Updated 13 November 2024 Arab News November 13, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief is intensifying efforts to deliver critical aid to Lebanon and Gaza while supporting medical assistance needs in Turkiye and Sri Lanka. The 23rd aid plane from Riyadh arrived at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport on Wednesday, carrying food, shelter, and medical supplies for people displaced by Israeli airstrikes.
KSRELIEF ALSO CONTINUES TO PROVIDE ESSENTIAL FOOD BASKETS TO FAMILIES IN NORTHERN GAZA AMID ISRAEL’S ONGOING CONFLICT WITH THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE.
In Turkiye, KSrelief’s volunteer medical team set a world record by implanting 42 cochlear devices in 14 hours as part of the Saudi Sama’a Volunteer Program in Reyhanli, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
Over the week-long campaign, the team implanted a total of 122 cochlear devices for children, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to global medical aid.
In Sri Lanka, KSrelief recently concluded the Saudi Noor Volunteer Project to combat blindness in Hambantota, examining 4,500 cases, distributing 600 pairs of eyeglasses, and performing 503 specialized eye surgeries.
KSRELIEF DELIVERS WINTER AID AND DATES TO YEMEN’S VULNERABLE
These packages form part of the emergency shelter project in Yemen. (SPA)
Updated 08 November 2024 Arab News November 08, 202410:28
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has delivered dates and winter shelter to vulnerable people in Yemen, the Saudi Press Agency reported late Thursday. KSrelief’s volunteers distributed 100 winter bags in Thamud district, Hadhramaut governorate, for 600 individuals from 100 vulnerable families. These packages form part of the emergency shelter project in Yemen. (SPA) The aid is a part of the agency’s emergency shelter project in the country. Meanwhile, 2,459 cartons of dates were delivered in Al-Wadi district, Marib governorate, for the benefit of 14,754 people.
SAUDI AGENCY KSRELIEF DELIVERS FOOD, HYGIENE KITS IN SYRIA
The aid is a part of KSrelief’s projects to support earthquake-affected people in northern Syria. (SPA)
Updated 08 November 2024 Arab News November 08, 202409:58
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has distributed food and hygiene kits to thousands of vulnerable people across Syria, the Saudi Press Agency reported late Thursday. The agency’s volunteers delivered 750 food parcels and 750 hygiene kits in Al-Hasakah, Syria, benefiting 4,500 people. Meanwhile 745 Syrian families, comprising 2,652 people, in Al-Dana, Idlib governorate, received food and hygiene kits. The aid is a part of KSrelief’s projects to support earthquake-affected people in northern Syria.
SAUDI AID AGENCY KSRELIEF CONTINUES GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS
KSrelief distributes 740 food baskets in Yemen’s Lahij (SPA)
Updated 19 October 2024 Arab News October 19, 202409:07
RIYADH: THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER (KSRELIEF) CONTINUES TO PROVIDE HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE TO PEOPLE IN SYRIA, YEMEN, SUDAN AND JORDAN.
KSrelief distributed 1,321 food parcels and 1,321 hygiene kits on Wednesday in the city of Afrin in Aleppo Governorate, benefiting 7,926 individuals.
THE ASSISTANCE IS PART OF A PROJECT ENTAILING PROVIDING AID TO INDIVIDUALS AFFECTED BY THE EARTHQUAKE IN NORTHERN SYRIA. In Yemen, KSrelief handed out 740 food parcels in Lahij governorate. This initiative benefited 5,180 individuals from 740 families and is part of the food aid project to SUPPORT THE NEEDIEST FAMILIES IN YEMEN FOR 2024. KSrelief also distributed on Wednesday 280 food boxes in the city of Osh in the Kyrgyz Republic, benefiting 1,400 individuals.
KINGDOM ‘DOUBLING AID EFFORTS’ IN SUDAN, KSRELIEF CHIEF TELLS UN
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, adviser to the royal court and KSrelief supervisor general, said that the Sudanese people “are working to overcome enormous challenges, and deserve much from us.” (SPA)
Updated 27 September 2024 SPA September 27, 202417:35
NEW YORK: KSrelief has doubled its humanitarian efforts in Sudan over the past year, THE HEAD OF THE SAUDI AID AGENCY TOLD A MEETING HELD ON THE SIDELINES OF THE 79TH SESSION OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN NEW YORK.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, adviser to the royal court and KSrelief supervisor general, said that the Sudanese people “are working to overcome enormous challenges, and deserve much from us.”
During the meeting, titled “The Cost of Inaction: Urgent and Collective Support to Scale Up the Humanitarian Response in Sudan and the Region,” Al-Rabeeah said that Saudi Arabia recognizes its duty toward Sudan, and intensive efforts have been made since the beginning of the humanitarian crisis to restore hope to its people.
“The Jeddah Declaration was the first step, aiming to ensure the protection of civilians and the delivery of urgent relief aid. The efforts of the Aligned for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan group have also recently helped thousands of needy people in Darfur,” he said.
“However, the recent escalation of violence in some areas has worsened the situation, forcing millions to flee their homes, leaving behind everything they own, and sometimes even family members.
“The Kingdom has provided over $3 billion in support to Sudan, including $132 million in humanitarian aid distributed across various geographical areas and humanitarian sectors,” Al-Rabeeah said.
Before the crisis in April 2023, KSrelief focused on implementing sustainable interventions. However, the worsening humanitarian conditions have undermined these efforts, prompting a shift to providing immediate assistance.
“KSrelief has doubled its efforts in Sudan, implementing more than 70 humanitarian projects since April 2023 at a cost exceeding $73 million in collaboration with UN organizations and other humanitarian groups.”
He highlighted the series of Saudi humanitarian air and sea missions organized by KSrelief to address urgent challenges. The missions are funded through government and public support as part of the KSrelief national aid campaign for the people of Sudan.
Al-Rabeeah said that despite KSrelief’s efforts, challenges persist, and collective action is needed to provide unrestricted humanitarian aid, and ensure a sustainable, coordinated response with safe and unhindered access to conflict-affected areas.
Concluding his speech, the KSrelief chief said: “As a humanitarian community, we must deal with the humanitarian crisis in Sudan away from political considerations. It is a humanitarian tragedy that requires transcending divisions, and together, we can make a real change that ensures all Sudanese people enjoy equal opportunities to rebuild their lives.” He said that the Kingdom continues to do everything possible to end the crisis, and achieve stability and security for Sudan and its people.
Story by Timothy McGill November 21, 2024
One of the world’s top vanilla-producing countries has seen its output threatened by extreme heat.
What’s happening?
Vanilla plants normally flourish under the canopy of trees in regions where crops are grown in Mexico. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, the country is one of the top five producers of vanilla. But VANILLA IS SENSITIVE TO HEAT WAVES AND DROUGHT, TWO EXTREME TYPES OF WEATHER SEEN THIS YEAR IN MEXICO.
“Vanilla production is at serious risk as a result of the effects caused by climate change,” said University of Veracruz professor Alejandro Quirino Villarreal, per Modern Farmer. “ALL OF OUR PRODUCERS ESTIMATE THAT WE LOST ABOUT 80 PERCENT OF THIS YEAR’S PRODUCE,” plantation worker Arturo Elias Garcia Gonzales said.
Sustaining vanilla production is also of cultural significance to members of the Chinantec community. Seven varieties of the spice can be found in the Chinantla region, but the production challenges threaten that long-term significance. “If we stop naming certain species in Chinantec language because they are not present anymore, we start losing the language,” explained Elias Garcia Martinez.
WHY ARE CROPS THREATENED BY AN OVERHEATING PLANET IMPORTANT?
MEXICO HAS MADE HEADLINES THIS YEAR, ENDURING DEVASTATING DROUGHTS AMID RECORD-BREAKING HEAT. EXTREME WEATHER EXACERBATED BY A WARMING WORLD HAS IMPACTED ANOTHER PANTRY STAPLE THIS YEAR. OLIVE OIL PRICES HAVE SURGED AS PRODUCTION DROPPED IN THE IBERIAN PENINSULA IN SOUTHWESTERN EUROPE.
A study released this spring detailed how GLOBAL HEATING RAISES THE PRICE OF ESSENTIAL FOOD AND KEEPS PEOPLE FROM EATING HEALTHILY. AFRICA IS ONE PART OF THE WORLD THAT IS EXPECTED TO BE HIT THE HARDEST. THE WORLD FOOD PROGRAM USA RANKS MADAGASCAR SECOND ON ITS LIST OF COUNTRIES MOST AFFECTED BY CLIMATE CHANGE.
“CLIMATE CHANGE CAN DISRUPT FOOD AVAILABILITY, REDUCE ACCESS TO FOOD, AND AFFECT FOOD QUALITY. FOR EXAMPLE, PROJECTED INCREASES IN TEMPERATURES, CHANGES IN PRECIPITATION PATTERNS, CHANGES IN EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS, AND REDUCTIONS IN WATER AVAILABILITY MAY ALL RESULT IN REDUCED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency. “INCREASES IN THE FREQUENCY AND SEVERITY OF EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS CAN ALSO INTERRUPT FOOD DELIVERY, AND RESULTING SPIKES IN FOOD PRICES AFTER EXTREME EVENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE MORE FREQUENT IN THE FUTURE. INCREASING TEMPERATURES CAN CONTRIBUTE TO SPOILAGE AND CONTAMINATION.”
The National Park Service says the changing climate exacerbates stressors that compromise plant resilience, disrupting forest structure and the ecosystems they support. The adverse effects of this include lowered productivity, altered ecosystem structure, vulnerability to pests, and the spread of invasive plants.
What’s being done about mitigating the impacts of an overheating planet on food production? Advances in technology can help the world face some of its food production challenges. German researchers developed a technology that uses microbes and carbon dioxide to yield materials that ultimately will help stabilize food supplies worldwide.
An international research team’s study on chickpea genotypes found encouraging results. They grew the high-protein plant amid drought conditions in Vienna’s city center, giving hope that even urban areas can support chickpeas and provide additional food security.
‘A HARBINGER OF WHAT’S TO COME:’ NASA SATELLITES SHOW MASSIVE DROP IN GLOBAL FRESHWATER LEVELS
Story by Ben Turner
EARTH’S TOTAL FRESH WATER HAS PLUMMETED TO AN ALARMING NEW LOW, AND IT COULD BE A SIGN THAT CLIMATE CHANGE IS PUSHING THE WORLD INTO A DANGEROUS PHASE OF GLOBAL DRYING, according to a new study.
SINCE 2015, OUR PLANET’S LAKES, RIVERS AND AQUIFERS HAVE LOST 290 CUBIC MILES (1,200 CUBIC KM) OF FRESH WATER, THE EQUIVALENT OF EMPTYING LAKE ERIE TWO AND A HALF TIMES.
This drop coincided with a 2014 to 2016 period of El Niño warming. Scientists typically expect freshwater levels to rebound after the climate oscillation ends, but satellite measurements, made up to 2023, reveal that the FRESHWATER LEVELS HAVE YET TO RECOVER — AND MAY NEVER COME BACK.
“WE DON’T THINK THIS IS A COINCIDENCE, AND IT COULD BE A HARBINGER OF WHAT’S TO COME,” study lead author Matthew Rodell, a hydrologist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, said in a statement.
The researchers published their findings Nov. 4 in the journal Surveys in Geophysics.
Related: Will the US run out of water?
AS CLIMATE CHANGE CAUSES TEMPERATURES TO RISE AROUND THE GLOBE, WATER EVAPORATES MORE READILY FROM ITS SURFACES, AND THE ATMOSPHERE GAINS AN EVER INCREASING CAPACITY TO ABSORB IT. THIS MEANS THAT WHEN DOWNPOURS DO OCCUR, THEY ARE MORE TORRENTIAL — DUMPING MORE RAIN IN FASTER AND MORE POWERFUL STORMS THAT ARE MORE LIKELY TO RUN OFF THAN TO SEEP INTO DRIER AND MORE COMPACT SURFACES.
This issue, alongside destructive land use and the mismanagement of water resources, means that NEARLY 3 BILLION PEOPLE AND OVER HALF OF GLOBAL FOOD PRODUCTION ARE FACING “UNPRECEDENTED STRESS” ON THEIR WATER SYSTEMS, according to one recent study.
To investigate the extent of our planet’s drying, the researchers behind the new study turned to two pairs of satellites that orbit above the North Pole. The satellites measured water levels by detecting the minute fluctuations that water’s mass produces to Earth’s gravitational field.
By precisely measuring the changes to the tugs of Earth’s gravity from 2015 to 2023, the scientists found that the 290 cubic miles of water that was lost from the world’s surface during the last El Niño never returned, and that 13 OF THE WORLD’S 30 MOST INTENSE DROUGHTS SEEN BY THE SATELLITES TOOK PLACE SINCE JANUARY 2015.
The result is an ominous one. The satellites used in the study are set to produce six more years of readings before they are retired. Whether fresh water will rebound to pre-2015 levels during that period, stay at the same value or continue to decline remains unclear. But the researchers are far from hopeful.
“There is much debate and little consensus about how patterns of wetting and drying will manifest in a warming world,” they wrote in the study. “Hence, it is difficult to evaluate whether the observed patterns are consistent with predictions and likely to persist.”
2024 ‘VIRTUALLY CERTAIN’ TO BE HOTTEST YEAR ON RECORD: EU MONITOR
A volunteer pours water to cool a man off during a hot day in Karachi, Pakistan, on May 21, 2024.
Updated 07 November 2024 AFP November 07, 202406:05
PARIS: THIS YEAR IS “VIRTUALLY CERTAIN” TO BE THE HOTTEST IN RECORDED HISTORY WITH WARMING ABOVE 1.5C, EU CLIMATE MONITOR COPERNICUS SAID THURSDAY, DAYS BEFORE NATIONS ARE DUE TO GATHER FOR CRUNCH UN CLIMATE TALKS.
The European agency said THE WORLD WAS PASSING A “NEW MILESTONE” OF TEMPERATURE RECORDS that should serve to accelerate action to cut planet-heating emissions at the UN negotiations in Azerbaijan next week. Last month, marked by DEADLY FLOODING IN SPAIN AND HURRICANE MILTON IN THE UNITED STATES, WAS THE SECOND HOTTEST OCTOBER ON RECORD, WITH AVERAGE GLOBAL TEMPERATURES SECOND ONLY TO THE SAME PERIOD IN 2023.
Copernicus said 2024 would likely be more than 1.55 degrees Celsius above the 1850-1900 average — the period before the industrial-scale burning of fossil fuels.
This does not amount to a breach of the Paris deal, which strives to limit global warming to below 2C and preferably 1.5C, because that is measured over decades and not individual years.
“IT IS NOW VIRTUALLY CERTAIN THAT 2024 WILL BE THE WARMEST YEAR ON RECORD AND THE FIRST YEAR OF MORE THAN 1.5C ABOVE PRE-INDUSTRIAL LEVELS,” said Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) Deputy Director Samantha Burgess. “This marks a new milestone in global temperature records and should serve as a catalyst to raise ambition for the upcoming Climate Change Conference, COP29.”
The UN climate negotiations in Azerbaijan, which will set the stage for a new round of crucial carbon-cutting targets, will take place in the wake of the United States election victory by Donald Trump.Trump, a climate change denier, pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement during his first presidency — and while his successor Joe Biden took the United States back in, he has threatened to do so again.
Meanwhile, average global temperatures have reached new peaks, as have concentrations of planet-heating gases in the atmosphere.
Scientists say the safer 1.5C limit is rapidly slipping out of reach, while stressing that every tenth of a degree of temperature rise heralds progressively more damaging impacts.
Last month the UN said the current pace of climate action would result in a catastrophic 3.1C of warming this century, while all current climate pledges taken in full would still amount to a devastating 2.6C temperature rise.
GLOBAL WARMING IS NOT JUST ABOUT RISING TEMPERATURES, BUT THE KNOCK-ON EFFECT OF ALL THE EXTRA HEAT IN THE ATMOSPHERE AND SEAS. WARMER AIR CAN HOLD MORE WATER VAPOR, AND WARMER OCEANS MEAN GREATER EVAPORATION, RESULTING IN MORE INTENSE DOWNPOURS AND STORMS.
In a month of weather extremes, OCTOBER SAW ABOVE-AVERAGE RAINFALL ACROSS SWATHES OF EUROPE, AS WELL AS PARTS OF CHINA, THE US, BRAZIL AND AUSTRALIA, COPERNICUS SAID. THE US IS ALSO EXPERIENCING ONGOING DROUGHT, WHICH AFFECTED RECORD NUMBERS OF PEOPLE, THE EU MONITOR ADDED.
COPERNICUS SAID AVERAGE SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURES IN THE AREA IT MONITORS WERE THE SECOND HIGHEST ON RECORD FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER. C3S uses billions of measurements from satellites, ships, aircraft and weather stations to aid its calculations.
Copernicus records go back to 1940 but other sources of climate data such as ice cores, tree rings and coral skeletons allow scientists to expand their conclusions using evidence from much deeper in the past.
Climate scientists say the period being lived through right now is likely the warmest the earth has been for the last 100,000 years, back at the start of the last Ice Age.
CLIMATE CHANGE IS A KEY DRIVER OF WORLDWIDE HUNGER, ACCORDING TO IFAD
Lower than normal water levels at the Wanaque Reservoir in Wanaque, New Jersey, Nov. 15, 2024.
Updated 51 sec ago Haifa Alshammari November 19, 202419:29
BAKU: CLIMATE CHANGE IS DANGEROUSLY IMPACTING CROPS AND DRIVING WORLDWIDE HUNGER, according to the head of the International Fund of Agricultural Development.
“FOOD SECURITY IS INTERTWINED WITH THE CURRENT EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS, AS IT HAS IMPACTED THE WORLD,” IFAD President Alvaro Lario said in an interview with Arab News on the sidelines of the COP29 UN climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan.
IFAD reported that in 2023, ABOUT 735 MILLION PEOPLE SUFFERED FROM HUNGER CAUSED BY CLIMATE CHANGE. IN ADDITION, UNUSUAL RAINFALLS, ACCORDING TO IFAD, CAUSED A DECREASE IN WHEAT PRODUCTION AND FOOD QUALITY IN EUROPE.
FLOODS AND HEAT WAVES CAUSED DAMAGE TO ORANGE CROPS IN BRAZIL. IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, ABOVE-AVERAGE TEMPERATURES LED TO BELOW-AVERAGE MAIZE HARVESTS, AND IN PARTS OF WEST AFRICA, ERRATIC RAINS AFFECTED COCOA PRODUCTION AND CUT OUTPUT BY HALF.
“WE ARE SEEING A LOT OF THE CROPS ARE FULLY BEING IMPACTED IN BRAZIL, WHICH HAS BEEN HIT BY A HISTORIC DROUGHT, OR IN GHANA, FOR EXAMPLE, WHERE THERE HAS NOT BEEN ENOUGH RAIN, CUTTING THE COCOA PRODUCTION BY HALF.”
The IFAD is a UN specialized agency as well as a development finance institution. The organization provides concessional funds and grants to countries and invests in the private sector. The organization’s key focus is to provide livelihoods and raise income as well as production in low- and middle-income countries.
“Our biggest investments are in the Sub-Saharan region. Fifty-five percent of our funding goes to Sub-Saharan Africa, and up to 60 percent into Africa. But we also operate in the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. We are currently investing in 90 countries,” said Lario.
THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA IS ONE OF THE MAIN CONTRIBUTORS TO IFAD. ACCORDING TO THE ORGANIZATION, SAUDI ARABIA HAS CONTRIBUTED OVER $536 MILLION TO IFAD SINCE IT STARTED AND IS AMONG THE TOP 10 DONORS. IN THE LAST 10 YEARS ALONE, THE KINGDOM HAS CONTRIBUTED A TOTAL OF $96.6 MILLION.
IFAD implemented the first phase of a project to support coffee and mango farmers in the Jazan region. From 2018 to 2023, the project established 50 model coffee farms and five mango farms in the region, which benefited nearly 30,000 smallholder farmers, according to IFAD. Furthermore, the project adopted strategic plans through a group of development solutions and pillars that include agricultural sustainability and innovation.
“SMALL-STATE ISLANDS ARE AMONG THE MOST VULNERABLE (TO CLIMATE CHANGE),” SAID LARIO. “WE ARE SEEING THAT SEA LEVELS ARE RISING. THEY ARE ALSO SUFFERING FROM HURRICANES AND LONG DROUGHTS. THEY SUFFER FROM ACCESS TO POTABLE DRINKING WATER.”
Strategies to address the problem and implement adequate solutions have been developed by IFAD according to each country’s climate situation. “For IFAD, we do have strategies on how we work and how we design our projects. All the strategies are to promote sustainable food systems, also to increase rural non-farm crops, so they can also diversify their income.”
One of the programs the organization is working on is in Belize, in Central America, for heat-tolerant and drought-resistant crops such as maize or beans. Another project involves mixing trees with crops that provide shade to conserve water and combat the rising temperatures in Cuba.
NEARLY 100 FOOD AID TRUCKS VIOLENTLY LOOTED IN GAZA, UN AGENCIES SAY
Updated Mon, November 18, 2024 at 12:07 PM CST REUTERS
A truck carries humanitarian aid destined for the Gaza Strip at the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Israel
GENEVA/CAIRO (Reuters) –NEARLY 100 TRUCKS CARRYING FOOD FOR PALESTINIANS WERE VIOLENTLY LOOTED ON NOV. 16 AFTER ENTERING GAZA IN ONE OF THE WORST AID LOSSES DURING 13 MONTHS OF WAR IN THE ENCLAVE, WHERE HUNGER IS DEEPENING, TWO U.N. AGENCIES TOLD REUTERS ON MONDAY.
The convoy transporting food provided by U.N. agencies UNRWA and the World Food Programme was instructed by Israel to depart at short notice via an unfamiliar route from Kerem Shalom border crossing, said Louise Wateridge, UNRWA Senior Emergency Officer.
NINETY-EIGHT OF THE 109 TRUCKS IN THE CONVOY WERE RAIDED AND SOME OF THE TRANSPORTERS WERE INJURED DURING THE INCIDENT, she said, without detailing who carried out the ambush. “This … highlights the severity of access challenges of bringing aid into southern and central Gaza,” she told Reuters.
“THE URGENCY OF THE CRISIS CANNOT BE OVERSTATED; WITHOUT IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION, SEVERE FOOD SHORTAGES ARE SET TO WORSEN, FURTHER ENDANGERING THE LIVES OF OVER TWO MILLION PEOPLE WHO DEPEND ON HUMANITARIAN AID TO SURVIVE.”
The Hamas TV channel Al-Aqsa quoted Hamas interior ministry sources in Gaza as saying that over 20 gang members involved in looting aid trucks were killed during an operation carried out by Hamas security forces in coordination with tribal committees.
It said anyone caught aiding such looting would be treated with “an iron fist”.
A WFP spokesperson confirmed the looting and said that many routes in Gaza were currently impassable due to security issues.
An Israeli official said Israel had been working to address the humanitarian situation since the start of its war against Hamas, adding that the main problem with aid deliveries was U.N. distribution challenges.
A U.N. aid official said on Friday that access for aid to Gaza had reached a low point, with deliveries to parts of the Israeli-besieged north of the enclave all but impossible. Israel’s devastating military campaign in Gaza was triggered by the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel.
LOOTING DEEPENS GAZA MISERY AS FAMINE LOOMS
Reuters Fri, November 22, 2024 at 7:22 AM CST
Palestinians gather to receive aid, in Jabalia, northern Gaza Strip
NICOSIA (Reuters) – A humanitarian disaster in Gaza is being deepened by A TOTAL BREAKDOWN IN LAW AND ORDER and the conflict between Israel and Hamas is rendering the enclave uninhabitable, a senior official of the main U.N. aid agency there, UNRWA, said on Friday.
UNRWA official Natalie Boucly also said arrest warrants issued against senior Israeli politicians as well as a leader of Hamas by an international tribunal meant there would be a reckoning for the suffering inflicted on millions.
“BASICALLY THE ENTIRE POPULATION OF GAZA ARE IN DESPERATE NEED OF ASSISTANCE AMID A LOOMING FAMINE,” said Boucly, UNRWA’s deputy commissioner-general, programmes and partnerships.
Israel’s parliament passed a law last month that will ban UNRWA from operating in the country when it takes effect in late January. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini has said its implementation “will have catastrophic consequences.”
Speaking at a conference in Cyprus, Boucly said 500 TRUCKS OF PRE-WAR AID ENTERING THE PALESTINIAN ENCLAVE DAILY HAD NOW FALLEN TO 37, WITH THOSE SUPPLIES NOW AT RISK OF LOOTING BY CRIMINAL GANGS.
Nearly 100 trucks carrying food for Palestinians were violently looted on Nov. 16 after entering Gaza in one of the worst aid losses during 13 months of war in the enclave. “Gaza has become uninhabitable,” she said, calling the situation a failure of humanity. “There has to be accountability for all the grave violations of international law that are occurring. The issuance of the ICC arrest warrants yesterday against three individuals is the start of that accountability,” she said.
The International Criminal Court issued warrants on Thursday for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former defence minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas military leader Ibrahim Al-Masri, commonly known as Mohammed Deif, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel says Hamas is to blame for all harm to Gaza’s civilians, for operating among them, which the Palestinian group denies.
GAZANS SCRAMBLE FOR FOOD DAYS AFTER AID TRUCKS WERE LOOTED
Reuters Videos Updated Tue, November 19, 2024 at 5:25 PM EST
STORY: At a soup kitchen in Khan Younis on Tuesday, these PALESTINIANS HELD OUT EMPTY POTS HOPING FOR MEALS OF COOKED RICE.
On Tuesday, dozens of Palestinians held a funeral for a member of Hamas security forces who died a day earlier in clashes with looters of food aid trucks. Gazan Diyaa Al-nasasra said everyone is against the bandits and looters, but PEOPLE ARE BEING FORCED TO BUY FROM THEM.
“YOU ARE, AGAINST YOUR WILL, OBLIGED TO BUY A FLOUR BAG FROM A THIEF FOR $53, WHICH IS LOWER THAN ITS NORMAL PRICE WHICH HAS NOW REACHED $120 TO $133, BECAUSE YOU CAN’T PAY $133 FOR A BAG OF FLOUR.” BEFORE THE WAR, A SACK OF FLOUR SOLD FOR $10 OR $15.
In the West Bank, the head of the haulers union, Adel Amr, said he’s concerned about his drivers making the trip to Gaza.
“Of course, we get worried for the Gazan driver that comes to transfer the aids, and which are not merchandise, so he leaves his home risking his life not knowing if he will go back home from gangs and the thieves, and the armed gangs in Gaza.”
Amr said he was also concerned the supplies they bring in will never make it to the people who need it.
CLIMATE CHANGE IS MAKING TEMPERATURES DEADLIER, FOOD LESS RELIABLE, EXPERTS WARN
A DRONE VIEW SHOWS PEOPLE CARRYING FOOD AND WATER DELIVERED BY THE CIVIL DEFENSE TO THE ISOLATED VILLAGES AT THE DRY LAKE PURAQUEQUARA DURING THE MOST INTENSE AND WIDESPREAD DROUGHT BRAZIL HAS EXPERIENCED SINCE RECORDS BEGAN IN 1950 IN SAN FRANCISCO DO MAINA IN MANAUS, AMAZONAS STATE, BRAZIL, OCTOBER 1, 2024. (Reuters)
Updated 30 October 2024 Reuters October 30, 202403:29
Climate change, driven by fossil fuel emissions, is raising temperatures to dangerous new heights, while also worsening drought and food security, a new report by doctors and health experts warned on Tuesday.
THE RECORD TEMPERATURES OF 2023 — THE HOTTEST YEAR ON RECORD — MEANT THE AVERAGE PERSON EXPERIENCED 50 MORE DAYS OF DANGEROUS TEMPERATURES than they would have without climate change, according to the Lancet Countdown, an annual report based on work by dozens of experts, academic institutions, and UN agencies, including the World Health Organization.
Especially vulnerable are the elderly, with THE NUMBER OF HEAT-RELATED DEATHS IN PEOPLE OVER 65 LAST YEAR REACHING A LEVEL 167 PERCENT ABOVE THE NUMBER OF SUCH DEATHS IN THE 1990S. Without climate change, researchers would have expected that number to rise by 65 percent from the 1990s, the report said.
“Year on year, the deaths directly associated with climate change are increasing,” said Marina Belén Romanello, executive director of the Lancet Countdown. “But heat is also affecting not just the mortality and increasing deaths, but also increasing the diseases and the pathologies associated with heat exposure,” she said.
For example, people who exercise outdoors are increasingly at risk, she said. Companies are facing limited capacity for working outdoors. In fact, last year’s extreme heat cost the world an estimated 512 billion potential labor hours, worth hundreds of billions of dollars in potential income, the report said.
“Similar to what we saw with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is key workers who tend to be most exposed and unable to shield as easily during heatwaves, such as those working in one of our many hospitals without air conditioning, or outdoor construction workers,” said data scientist Nathan Cheetham at King’s College London in a statement. Cheetham was not involved in the study.
Climate change is also making food more unreliable, the authors warned.
WITH UP TO 48 PERCENT OF THE WORLD’S LAND AREA FACING EXTREME DROUGHT CONDITIONS LAST YEAR, THE RESEARCHERS SAID, ABOUT 151 MILLION MORE PEOPLE WOULD BE EXPERIENCING FOOD INSECURITY AS A RESULT, compared with the years 1981-2010.
EXTREME RAINFALL LAST YEAR ALSO AFFECTED ROUGHLY 60 PERCENT OF LANDS, UNLEASHING FLOODS AND RAISING RISKS FROM WATER CONTAMINATION OR INFECTIOUS DISEASE.
The study’s authors urged the upcoming UN climate summit, COP29, to direct climate finance toward public health. The COP29 talks begin Nov. 11 in Baku, Azerbaijan. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on countries to “cure the sickness of climate inaction” by slashing fossil fuel use and emissions in order “to create a fairer, safer, and healthier future for all.”
RUSSIA IS LOCKING UP BUTTER AS INFLATION CRISIS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS
Analysis by Tim Lister, CNN Mon, November 18, 2024 at 2:00 AM CST
Americans have spent the last few years complaining about inflation. But PRICE RISES IN RUSSIA ARE EYE-WATERING BY COMPARISON – AND JUST ONE SYMPTOM OF AN ECONOMY THAT IS OVERHEATING.
BUTTER, SOME MEATS, AND ONIONS ARE ABOUT 25% MORE EXPENSIVE THAN A YEAR AGO, according to official data. SOME SUPERMARKETS HAVE TAKEN TO KEEPING BUTTER IN LOCKED CABINETS: RUSSIAN SOCIAL MEDIA HAS SHOWN STOCKS BEING STOLEN.
The overall inflation rate is just shy of 10%, much higher than the central bank anticipated.
Inflation is being driven by the rapid rise in wages as the Kremlin pours billions into military industries and sends millions of men to fight in Ukraine. In the middle of a war, companies outside the defense sector can’t compete for workers without paying much higher wages. In turn, they charge higher prices. So the spiral continues.
“PRICES ARE RISING BECAUSE OF THE WAR,” Alexandra Prokopenko at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center in Berlin told CNN. “DEMAND IN THE ECONOMY IS DISTORTED IN FAVOR OF UNPRODUCTIVE SPENDING. WAGES RISE BECAUSE EMPLOYERS HAVE TO COMPETE FOR LABOR.”
Other economists dub this as growth without development. National income grows, but there is no broad improvement to health, education, technology and infrastructure.
In an effort to cool inflation, the central bank raised its key interest rate in October to a record high of 21%. But an influential group of Russian economists said on Telegram this week that “increased inflationary pressure will not only persist but may even increase.”
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin said earlier this month that the Russian economy needs nearly 1 million new workers because of an unemployment rate of only 2.4%, or “virtually no unemployment,” as he put it.
Putin described Russia’s labor shortage as “currently one of the main obstacles to our economic growth.”
“We have about half a million people in construction – the industry will take 600,000 people and not even notice,” he told a think tank summit this month. Manufacturing needed at least 250,000 more people, he said.
High labor costs and interest rates are squeezing companies. Russia’s Alfa Bank said last month that “COMPANIES ARE ALREADY HAVING A HARD TIME, AND WITH THE (CENTRAL BANK) RATE INCREASED TO 21%, IT WILL BECOME EVEN MORE DIFFICULT, SO WE DO NOT RULE OUT THE RISK OF INCREASED BANKRUPTCIES.”
Along with most economists, Alfa expects the central bank rate to rise to 23% next month. At the heart of the overheating is the Kremlin’s spending. THE MILITARY BUDGET WILL RISE BY NEARLY A QUARTER IN 2025, AMOUNTING TO ONE-THIRD OF ALL STATE SPENDING AND 6.3 PER CENT OF GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT. ADD IN OTHER SO-CALLED “NATIONAL SECURITY” SPENDING, AND IT AMOUNTS TO 40% OF THE FEDERAL BUDGET.
According to the draft budget published in September, defense spending next year will be at least double social spending, which includes benefits and pensions.
Crisis? What crisis?
Analysts don’t see the Russian economy as tumbling over a precipice but instead as a slowly gathering crisis.
“With a steady stream of commodity revenues, a competent economic team and escalating repression at home, the Kremlin can continue funding its war effort for the foreseeable future,” Prokopenko said.
The International Monetary Fund expects Russian GDP to rise 3.6% this year, compared with its 2.8% forecast for the United States.
International sanctions have not delivered a knock-out blow. Russia has evaded sanctions by importing Western technology through third countries, especially through central Asia and Turkey.
And despite all those Western sanctions, EU imports from Russia still totaled nearly $50 billion last year.
The Russian state continues to reap the benefits of exporting oil and gas to India and China, largely through a shadow fleet of ships that evade a $60 per barrel price cap that Western governments have tried to impose. At home, state receipts are rising, especially through sales tax as Russians spend more.
According to Russia’s State Statistics Service, incomes adjusted for inflation rose 5.8% last year as companies chased workers.
For millions of Russians working overtime, especially in IT, construction and manufacturing, times are good. And the wealthy who used to spend much of their money in European resorts are now spending it at home, further stimulating the economy.
Families are also benefiting from higher pay and bonuses paid to men recruited into the armed forces. Russian contract soldiers are paid nearly three times the average wage and receive a signing-on bonus of anywhere between $4,000 and $22,000.
If they are killed in combat, there is a further payout to their families of well over $100,000 depending on the region, leading a Russian economist in exile, Vladislav Inozemtsev, to conjure the phrase “deathonomics.” All this cash is helping to drive a spending spree far from the front lines. Official figures show much higher spending on domestic tourism and leisure.
But not all benefit from rising incomes.
Public sector workers, including doctors and teachers, as well as pensioners and social benefit recipients, are the hardest hit by rising prices, Prokopenko said.
And there is no quick fix to the chronic labor crunch.
Russia has traditionally turned to central Asia for unskilled labor, and Putin recently suggested more foreign workers are needed. In 2023, 4.5 million foreign workers came to Russia, mainly from central Asia. Then came a wave of Russian xenophobia following the terror attack in Moscow last March.
“Immigration from Central Asia could therefore fall short of expectations in 2024,” Prokopenko said, “especially as Russia is also competing with the Middle East and South Korea for Central Asian workers. Russia has virtually nowhere else to find new workers.”
And its longer-term demographics are bleak.
The United Nations expects the Russian population to shrink to 142 million by 2030 from just under 145 million now. Its average age is also increasing: Over a fifth of the population is now age 60. The UK Defense Ministry estimated that some 1.3 million people left Russia in 2022, when Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, aggravating a 15-year trend of a shrinking workforce. Many of those who left were young professionals.
While it is difficult to be precise about the exodus, the Atlantic Council noted that “if 700,000 Russians now registered as living in Dubai is any indication, the émigrés may number far more than 1 million.”
Despite its surprising resilience over the past few years, the Russian economy is still vulnerable to shocks in an uncertain global environment. Lower commodity prices, a slowdown in Chinese demand for Russian oil and trade wars would all have an impact.
And when the war ends, Russia will have to adapt to a post-war economy, curbing state spending, reintegrating huge numbers of demobilized soldiers and reorientating companies away from feeding military industries. The big Russian cities are enjoying the fruits of a wartime economy, but there may be a reckoning ahead.
THOUSANDS OF UK FARMERS DESCEND ON PARLIAMENT TO PROTEST A TAX THEY SAY WILL RUIN FAMILY FARMS
JILL LAWLESS Updated Tue, November 19, 2024 at 10:46 AM CST
Britain Farmers Protest
Seth James, left, and Eddie England, right, accompanied with their parents, attend a farmers protest to urge the government to change course over its inheritance tax plans, in London, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024.
LONDON (AP) — With banners, bullhorns and toy tractors, THOUSANDS OF BRITISH FARMERS DESCENDED ON PARLIAMENT ON TUESDAY TO PROTEST A TAX HIKE THEY SAY WILL DEAL A “HAMMER BLOW” TO STRUGGLING FAMILY FARMS.
U.K. FARMERS ARE RARELY AS MILITANT AS THEIR EUROPEAN NEIGHBORS, AND BRITAIN HAS NOT SEEN LARGE-SCALE PROTESTS LIKE THOSE THAT HAVE SNARLED CITIES IN FRANCE AND OTHER EUROPEAN COUNTRIES. NOW, THOUGH, FARMERS SAY THEY WILL STEP UP THEIR ACTION IF THE GOVERNMENT DOESN’T LISTEN.
The flashpoint is the government’s decision in its budget last month to scrap a tax break dating from the 1990s that exempts agricultural property from inheritance tax. From April 2026, farms worth more than 1 million pounds ($1.3 million) face a 20% tax when the owner dies and they are passed on to the next generation.
“Everyone’s mad,” said Olly Harrison, co-organizer of a protest that flooded the streets around Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Downing Street office. He said many “want to take to the streets and block roads and go full French.”
Organizers urged protesters not to bring farm machinery into central London, though a handful of tractors drove past Downing Street festooned with SIGNS SAYING “THE FINAL STRAW” AND “NO FARMERS, NO FOOD.”
They were cheered by a crowd that police estimated at 13,000. Some held signs proclaiming “Stand with a farmer, not Starmer.”
Children on toy tractors looped round Parliament Square after a rally addressed by speakers including former “Top Gear” TV host and celebrity farmer Jeremy Clarkson. Another 1,800 farmers were invited into Parliament for a “mass lobby” organized by the National Farmers’ Union.
“THE HUMAN IMPACT OF THIS POLICY IS SIMPLY NOT ACCEPTABLE, IT’S WRONG,” NFU President Tom Bradshaw said. “IT’S KICKING THE LEGS OUT FROM UNDER BRITISH FOOD SECURITY.”
VOLATILE WEATHER EXACERBATED BY CLIMATE CHANGE, GLOBAL INSTABILITY AND THE UPHEAVAL CAUSED BY BRITAIN’S 2020 DEPARTURE FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION HAVE ALL ADDED TO THE BURDEN ON FARMERS. Many feel the Labour Party government’s tax change, part of an effort to raise billions of pounds to fund public services, is the last straw.
“FOUR OUT OF THE LAST FIVE YEARS, WE’VE LOST MONEY,” said Harrison, a fifth-generation farmer who grows cereal crops near Liverpool in northwest England. “The only thing that’s kept me going is doing it for my kids. And maybe a little bit of appreciation on the land allows you to keep borrowing, to keep going. But now that’s just disappeared overnight.”
Starmer’s center-left government says the “vast majority” of farms -– about 75% — will not have to pay inheritance tax, and various loopholes mean that a farming couple can pass on an estate worth up to 3 million pounds ($3.9 million) to their children tax-free. The 20% levy is half the 40% inheritance tax paid on other land and property in the U.K.
Starmer spokeswoman Camilla Marshall said the tax decision had been “difficult” but was not being reconsidered.
Supporters of the tax say it will recoup money from wealthy people who have bought up agricultural land as an investment, driving up the cost of farmland.
“It’s become the most effective way for the super rich to avoid paying their inheritance tax,” Environment Secretary Steve Reed wrote in The Daily Telegraph, adding that high land prices were “robbing young farmers of the dream of owning their own farm.”
But THE FARMERS’ UNION SAYS MORE THAN 60% OF WORKING FARMS COULD FACE A TAX HIT. And while farms may be worth a lot on paper, profits are often small. Government figures show that INCOME FOR MOST TYPES OF FARMS FELL IN THE YEAR ENDING FEBRUARY 2024, IN SOME CASES BY MORE THAN 70%. Average farm income ranged from about 17,000 pounds ($21,000) for grazing livestock farms to 143,000 pounds ($180,000) for specialist poultry farms.
The last decade has been turbulent. Many British farmers backed Brexit as a chance to get out of the EU’s complex and much-criticized Common Agricultural Policy. Since then, the U.K. has brought in changes such as paying farmers to restore nature and promote biodiversity, as well as for producing food.
Some farmers have welcomed those moves, but many feel goodwill was squandered through bureaucratic bungling — by previous Conservative governments as well as Starmer’s Labour administration — alongside a failure of subsidies to keep up with inflation and new trade deals with countries including Australia and New Zealand that have opened the door to cheap imports.
National Farmers’ Union Deputy President David Exwood said the government has “completely blown their trust with the industry.”
Heidi Fermor, who helps run her family’s fruit, vegetable and arable farm in southeast England, said she was attending her first protest because GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS HAD “NO IDEA” ABOUT THE REALITY OF FARMERS’ LIVES.
“Farming is hard. We’re very privileged, we have a lovely life, but it’s hard,” she said. “We want to farm for life, for future generations, not just for today.”
RIO’S G20 SUMMIT KICKED OFF WITH AN INITIATIVE TO TACKLE ONE OF HUMANITY’S OLDEST CHALLENGES: HUNGER. LULA, AS HE IS COLLOQUIALLY KNOWN, LAUNCHED THE GLOBAL ALLIANCE AGAINST HUNGER AND POVERTY, A MATCHMAKING PLATFORM CONNECTING COUNTRIES WITH POLICIES, PARTNERS, AND FUNDING TO ELIMINATE HUNGER.
“Hunger and poverty is not the result of scarcity,” Lula said, emphasizing that hunger is “the biological expression of social evil.” His message resonated as 82 countries, 26 international organizations, and 40 financial institutions signed on to the alliance. “It’s about political decisions,” he added.
THE ALLIANCE’S FOCUS IS AMBITIOUS: CASH TRANSFERS FOR 500 MILLION PEOPLE, school meals for 150 million students, and support for small-scale farmers and maternal health. Nations such as Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Togo are already stepping up with commitments ranging from expanded school meals to CASH TRANSFER PROGRAMS, AND GLOBAL HEAVYWEIGHTS SUCH AS GERMANY AND THE GATES FOUNDATION HAVE PLEDGED TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT.
At its heart, the alliance aims to scale proven solutions. Lula pointed to Brazil’s own success: halving hunger and malnutrition rates through social programs two decades ago. Now, the alliance seeks to replicate such wins worldwide by linking countries with resources such as World Bank loans or NGO expertise, my colleague Elissa Miolene writes.
The challenge? Turning promises into action. Financial gaps remain daunting, and experts stress the need for coordinated funding through mechanisms such as the World Bank’s International Development Association replenishment. Still, optimism runs high.
“We already know how to eliminate hunger,” Andrea Polo Galante of World Vision said. “This alliance connects the dots between what’s proven to work and the resources to make it happen.”
BRAZIL LAUNCHES GLOBAL ANTI-HUNGER ALLIANCE BEFORE G20 SUMMIT
By Lisandra Paraguassu November 15, 20248:32 AM EST REUTERS
Brazilian Pataxo indigenous people attend the GLOBAL ALLIANCE AGAINST HUNGER AND POVERTY FESTIVAL on the sidelines of the G20 summit, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil November 14, 2024.
RIO DE JANEIRO, Nov 15 (Reuters) – Brazil launched the Global Alliance for Hunger and Poverty on Friday at the G20 Summit in Rio, a Brazilian government official said, with an initial 41 participating members PLEDGING TO LIFT 500 MILLION PEOPLE OUT OF POVERTY THROUGH CASH TRANSFERS AND SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEMS.
THE INITIATIVE BRINGS TOGETHER DEVELOPED NATIONS, NGOS, AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS TO DONATE MONEY AND EXPERTISE TO COUNTRIES IN NEED. THE INTENTION IS TO REMOVE ALL NATIONS FROM THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION’S (FAO) HUNGER MAP BY 2030.
Leaders of the G20 group of largest economies meet in Rio de Janeiro on Monday and Tuesday for their annual summit hosted by Brazil, whose government has MADE FIGHTING WORLD HUNGER A PRIORITY ALONG WITH CLIMATE CHANGE AND REFORMING MULTILATERAL GOVERNANCE.
Brazilian Minister of Social Development Wellington Dias told Reuters on Thursday that THE ALLIANCE IS LIKELY TO REACH ITS 100-COUNTRY TARGET IN THE COMING MONTHS, WITH MORE THAN 50 NATIONS CURRENTLY PREPARING PLANS TO JOIN.
“They have to present a plan with efficient, well-known projects that effectively reduce poverty,” Dias said.
The official acknowledged existing mistrust between donors and recipients, citing concerns over concrete results and broken promises. “There’s a mistrust of UN bodies,” he said, adding that developed countries are perceived as doing too little. “So we need to create a buzz, and that’s what we’re doing,” he added.
Dias said the issue was not lack of funds, AS THE WORLD INVESTS AROUND $100 BILLION A YEAR TO FIGHT POVERTY AND HUNGER.
The problem is that investments are too fragmented and inefficiently allocated, he said. The World Bank estimates $179 billion will be needed to reach the target by 2030, he added.
PROPOSED INITIATIVES INCLUDE EXPANDING CASH TRANSFER PROGRAMS TO REACH 500 MILLION PEOPLE, PROVIDING SCHOOL MEALS TO AN ADDITIONAL 150 MILLION CHILDREN AND ASSISTING 200 MILLION CHILDREN UP TO AGE 6 AND PREGNANT WOMEN WITH HEALTH PROGRAMS.
Countries such as Brazil, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Chile, Indonesia, and the Dominican Republic have already presented their plans. Donors include Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Norway, Spain, the European Union, and institutions such as the World Bank, FAO, and World Food Programme.
SAUDI ARABIA HIGHLIGHTS GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS AT G20 PARLIAMENTARY SUMMIT IN BRAZIL
Updated 08 November 2024 Arab News November 08, 202418:50
RIYADH: Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Sulami, deputy speaker of Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council, commended Brazil’s initiative to launch the Global Alliance to Combat Hunger and Poverty, AFFIRMING THAT SAUDI ARABIA HAS BEEN A MEMBER OF THE ALLIANCE SINCE MAY 2024, THE SAUDI PRESS AGENCY REPORTED.
This came during the 10th Summit of G20 Parliamentary Speakers held in Brasilia, Brazil, focusing on the theme “PARLIAMENTS FOR A FAIR WORLD AND A SUSTAINABLE PLANET.”
Al-Sulami led the Kingdom’s delegation at the international gathering, REVEALING THAT RIYADH WOULD HOST THE UN CONFERENCE ON LAND AND DROUGHT IN DECEMBER.
THE DEPUTY SPEAKER ELABORATED ON SAUDI ARABIA’S COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO ADDRESSING POVERTY AND HUNGER THROUGH THE EFFORTS OF THE GOVERNMENT AND THE SHOURA COUNCIL, WHICH HAVE CREATED A SOCIAL SAFETY NET THROUGH VARIOUS SUPPORT PROGRAMS, THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT BANK, AND THE CONTRIBUTION OF CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS.
ON THE INTERNATIONAL FRONT, SAUDI ARABIA’S HUMANITARIAN CONTRIBUTIONS HAVE BEEN SUBSTANTIAL, SPA REPORTED. FROM 1975 TO 2024, THE KINGDOM PROVIDED NEARLY $133 BILLION IN DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE, REACHING 171 COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE. THIS AID HAS SUPPORTED OVER 7,090 HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS. CURRENTLY, THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTRE MANAGES 1,700 PROJECTS AIMED AT COMBATING HUNGER AND POVERTY AROUND THE WORLD.
Al-Sulami highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to workplace equality through its adoption of ILO Conventions 100 and 111. The Kingdom’s laws ensure equal pay and employment opportunities, with no discrimination between men and women in jobs and wages. These efforts have yielded significant results, with female participation in the labor market reaching 37 percent by 2023, exceeding expectations set in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
The Kingdom has also provided $187 million in urgent relief to Gaza, along with $1.6 billion in development and humanitarian assistance, according to SPA.
SAUDI ARABIA LAUNCHED THE GLOBAL ALLIANCE FOR THE TWO-STATE SOLUTION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OTHER ARAB AND ISLAMIC COUNTRIES, THE EU, AND NORWAY, HOSTING ITS FIRST MEETING IN RIYADH ON OCT. 30, 2024. FOLLOWING THE EXTRAORDINARY ARAB-ISLAMIC SUMMIT HELD IN RIYADH ON NOV. 11, 2023, THE KINGDOM ANNOUNCED ANOTHER EDITION OF THE SUMMIT SCHEDULED FOR NOV. 11, 2024. These efforts aim to achieve an immediate ceasefire, end the Israeli occupation, PROVIDE RELIEF TO THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE, AND ESTABLISH AN INDEPENDENT PALESTINIAN STATE WITH EAST JERUSALEM AS ITS CAPITAL, IN LINE WITH UN SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS.
FAMINE-HIT SUDAN CAMP GETS FIRST AID CONVOY IN MONTHS
Wedaeli Chibelushi in London & Richard Kagoe in Nairobi – BBC News Sat, November 23, 2024 at 4:46 AM
A FAMINE-STRICKEN CAMP HOUSING ABOUT 500,000 DISPLACED PEOPLE IN SUDAN HAS RECEIVED ITS FIRST CONVOY OF AID IN MONTHS. THE UNITED NATIONS’ TRUCKS ARRIVED IN ZAMZAM – which houses masses forced to flee during Sudan’s 18-month civil war – on Friday.
The UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) said food deliveries had been held up for months by fierce fighting in the nearby Darfur city of el-Fasher, as well as the “IMPASSABLE” ROADS BROUGHT ON BY THE RAINY SEASON.
The war – a power struggle between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) – has CREATED THE WORLD’S LARGEST HUMANITARIAN CRISIS, FORCING 10 MILLION PEOPLE FROM THEIR HOMES AND PUSHING COMMUNITIES INTO HUNGER.
The population of Zamzam has reportedly ballooned since April, when the RSF began battling to take el-Fasher from the army. El-Fasher is the only city still under military control in the western region of Darfur. In August, an independent group of food security experts determined that the war had pushed Zamzam into famine.
THE CONDITIONS FOR CLASSIFYING AN AREA TO BE IN FAMINE ARE THAT AT LEAST 20% OF HOUSEHOLDS MUST BE FACING AN EXTREME LACK OF FOOD, WITH 30% OF CHILDREN ACUTELY MALNOURISHED AND TWO PEOPLE OUT OF EVERY 10,000 DYING DAILY FROM STARVATION OR FROM MALNUTRITION AND DISEASE.
The food convoy to Zamzam is part of a major surge in the WFP’s efforts to reach those in the “most needy and isolated conflict areas”, the organisation said. THREE CONVOYS IN TOTAL WITH MORE THAN 700 TRUCKS HAVE BEEN DISPATCHED WITH ENOUGH TO FEED 1.5 MILLION PEOPLE FOR OVER A MONTH, THE STATEMENT SAID.
Some of them food aid is also heading to South Kordofan state.
“These trucks carry more than just food; they carry a lifeline for people caught in the crossfire of conflict and hunger. “We need guaranteed safe passage for our trucks and sustained international support to reach every family at risk,” Laurent Bukera, the WFP’s regional director for eastern Africa, said.
The warring sides have both been accused of blocking and looting aid, but both deny the allegations.
The convoy that arrived in Zamzam camp on Friday had left Adré on the border with Chad on 9 November – a key route for bringing aid into Darfur. This corridor had been closed by an order from the army-controlled government in February and re-opened for three months in August.
Members of the government had protested against the opening, arguing that it allows for the RSF to deliver weapons, the Reuters news agency reported. Last week, the government agreed to keep it open for another three months.
A second convoy of WFP aid left the army stronghold of Port Sudan, Sudan’s only port, 10 days ago and it is also heading to Zamzamp camp in the west.
MAJORITY OF SOUTH SUDANESE WILL BE FOOD INSECURE NEXT YEAR: UN
Displaced Sudanese queue to receive food portions at their makeshift camp in the eastern city of Gedaref on September 9, 2024.(AFP)
Updated 18 November 2024 AFP November 18, 202411:27
Juba: ALMOST 60 PERCENT OF SOUTH SUDAN’S POPULATION WILL BE ACUTELY FOOD INSECURE NEXT YEAR, WITH MORE THAN TWO MILLION CHILDREN AT RISK OF MALNUTRITION, DATA FROM A UNITED NATIONS-BACKED REVIEW WARNED ON MONDAY.
THE WORLD’S YOUNGEST COUNTRY IS AMONG THE GLOBE’S POOREST AND IS GRAPPLING WITH ITS WORST FLOODING IN DECADES AS WELL AS A MASSIVE INFLUX OF REFUGEES FLEEING THE WAR IN SUDAN TO THE NORTH. THE LATEST INTEGRATED FOOD SECURITY PHASE CLASSIFICATION (IPC) REVIEW ESTIMATED THAT 57 PERCENT OF THE POPULATION WOULD BE SUFFERING FROM ACUTE FOOD INSECURITY FROM APRIL.
The United Nations defines acute food insecurity as when a “person’s inability to consume adequate food puts their lives or livelihoods in immediate danger.”
Almost 7.7 MILLION PEOPLE WILL BE CLASSED AS ACUTELY FOOD INSECURE, according to the IPC, an increase from 7.1 million people the previous lean season.
“YEAR AFTER YEAR WE SEE HUNGER REACHING SOME OF THE HIGHEST LEVELS WE’VE SEEN IN SOUTH SUDAN,” said Mary-Ellen McGroarty of the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) in South Sudan.
“When we look at the areas with the highest levels of food insecurity, it’s clear that A COCKTAIL OF DESPAIR — CONFLICT AND THE CLIMATE CRISIS — ARE THE MAIN DRIVERS,” she said. MORE THAN 85 PERCENT OF RETURNEES FLEEING THE WAR IN SUDAN WILL BE ACUTELY FOOD INSECURE FROM THE NEXT LEAN SEASON IN APRIL.
The data also found that 2.1 MILLION CHILDREN ARE AT RISK OF MALNUTRITION, COMPOUNDED BY A LACK OF SAFE DRINKING WATER AND SANITATION.
“Malnutrition is the end result of a series of crises,” said Hamida Lasseko, UNICEF’s representative in South Sudan, adding the agency was “deeply concerned” that the numbers would increase if aid was not stepped up.
In October, the World Bank warned WIDESPREAD FLOODING WAS “WORSENING AN ALREADY CRITICAL HUMANITARIAN SITUATION.”
The UN’s humanitarian agency, OCHA, said earlier this month that 1.4 million people had been impacted by the flooding, which had displaced almost 380,000.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, THE WORLD’S YOUNGEST NATION HAS REMAINED PLAGUED BY CHRONIC INSTABILITY, VIOLENCE AND ECONOMIC STAGNATION AS WELL AS CLIMATE DISASTERS SUCH AS DROUGHT AND FLOODS.
The country also faces another period of political paralysis after the presidency delayed elections by two years to December 2026, exasperating international partners. South Sudan boasts plentiful oil resources but the vital source of revenue was decimated in February when an export pipeline was damaged in neighboring war-torn Sudan.
SOUTH SUDAN FLOODS AFFECT 1.4 MILLION, DISPLACE 379,000: UN
A woman carries a bucket on her head as she wades through floodwaters in the village of Wang Chot, Old Fangak county, Jonglei state, South Sudan, on Nov. 26, 2020.
Updated 09 November 2024 AFP November 09, 202408:16
Nairobi: DEVASTATING FLOODING IN SOUTH SUDAN IS AFFECTING AROUND 1.4 MILLION PEOPLE, WITH MORE THAN 379,000 DISPLACED, according to a United Nations update that warned about an upsurge in malaria.
Aid agencies have said that the world’s youngest country, highly vulnerable to climate change, IS IN THE GRIP OF ITS WORST FLOODING IN DECADES, mainly in the north. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said about 1.4 million people were affected by floods in 43 counties and the disputed Abyei region, which is claimed by both South Sudan and Sudan.
“Over 379,000 individuals are displaced in 22 counties and Abyei,” it added in a statement issued late on Friday.
A SURGE IN MALARIA HAS BEEN REPORTED IN SEVERAL STATES, IT SAID, “OVERWHELMING THE HEALTH SYSTEM AND EXACERBATING THE SITUATION AND IMPACT IN FLOOD-HIT AREAS.” Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, the world’s youngest nation has remained PLAGUED BY CHRONIC INSTABILITY, VIOLENCE AND ECONOMIC STAGNATION AS WELL AS CLIMATE DISASTERS SUCH AS DROUGHT AND FLOODS.
The World Bank said last month that THE LATEST FLOODS WERE “WORSENING AN ALREADY CRITICAL HUMANITARIAN SITUATION MARKED BY SEVERE FOOD INSECURITY, ECONOMIC DECLINE, CONTINUED CONFLICT, DISEASE OUTBREAKS, AND THE REPERCUSSIONS OF THE SUDAN CONFLICT,” WHICH HAS SEEN SEVERAL HUNDRED THOUSAND PEOPLE POUR INTO SOUTH SUDAN.
MORE THAN SEVEN MILLION PEOPLE ARE FOOD INSECURE IN SOUTH SUDAN and 1.65 million children are malnourished, according to the UN’s World Food Programme.
UN SENDS EMERGENCY FOOD AID FOR ONE MILLION LEBANESE
Displaced families receive water and food after fleeing the overnight Israeli strikes, amid ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, in southern Beirut, in Lebanon September 28, 2024. (Reuters)
Updated 29 September 2024 AFP September 29, 202408:14
ROME: The World Food Programme on Sunday said it had launched AN EMERGENCY OPERATION TO PROVIDE MEALS FOR ONE MILLION PEOPLE AFFECTED BY THE ESCALATING CONFLICT IN LEBANON. “A further acceleration of the conflict this weekend underscored the need for an immediate humanitarian response,” the Rome-based agency said in a statement, announcing that it was DISTRIBUTING READY-TO-EAT FOOD RATIONS, BREAD, HOT MEALS AND FOOD PARCELS TO SHELTERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
Israel on Sunday said that it was carrying out new air strikes on dozens of Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, two days after killing the Iran-backed group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in bombing raids outside Beirut. His killing marked a sharp escalation in nearly a year of tit-for-tat cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah since the latter’s Palestinian ally Hamas staged its unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
The bombing in Lebanon is “compounding the fragility of a population burdened by accumulated crises,” the WFP said. “In just a few days, WFP ASSISTANCE HAS REACHED THOUSANDS OF NEWLY DISPLACED PEOPLE,” the program’s country director for Lebanon, Matthew Hollingworth, said in the statement.
“AS THE CRISIS DEEPENS, WE ARE PREPARING TO ASSIST UP TO ONE MILLION PEOPLE THROUGH A MIX OF CASH AND FOOD SUPPORT,” he added, calling on the international community to mobilize $105 million to fund the operation through to the end of the year. “Lebanon is at a breaking point and cannot endure another war,” said WFP regional director Corinne Fleischer.
GAZA MOTHER STRUGGLING TO FEED CHILDREN SAYS ONLY DEATH CAN END THEIR SUFFERING
GLOBAL FOOD SECURITY EXPERTS SAID THERE IS A ‘STRONG LIKELIHOOD’ THAT FAMINE IS IMMINENT IN PARTS OF NORTHERN GAZA. (Reuters)
Updated 11 November 2024 Reuters November 11, 202422:26
GAZA: Itimad Al-Qanou, a Palestinian mother struggling to feed her seven children, feels abandoned by everyone. She sometimes feels that death is the best way to end her family’s suffering after a year of war that has turned Gaza into a bombed-out wasteland gripped by hunger.
“Let them drop a nuclear bomb and end it. We don’t want this life we’re living; we are dying slowly. Have mercy on us. Look at these children,” said the mother of three boys and four girls aged between eight and 18. Children in their town of Deir Al-Balah crowd at a charity site with empty pots, desperate for nourishment. Aid workers distribute lentil soup from a pot. But it is never enough to stave off hunger and ease widespread panic.
Qanou says her family faces the Israeli airstrikes that have killed tens of thousands of people and flattened much of Gaza on the one side, and hunger on the other. Trucks carrying humanitarian aid were allowed through the Erez crossing into northern Gaza on Monday.
The US will decide this week on whether Israel has made progress toward improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and how Washington will respond. Global food security experts said there is a “strong likelihood” that famine is imminent in parts of northern Gaza as Israel pursues a military offensive against Hamas militants there.
In response to the famine warning, the head of the UN Palestinian relief agency UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, accused Israel of using hunger as a weapon. Aside from the hunger, Gazans say they have no place to go that is safe after repeated evacuations left them living in tent encampments until they need to move again to escape more strikes.
Some say their plight is even worse than the 1948 “Nakba” or “Catastrophe” when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were dispossessed of their homes. With the war in Gaza now in its 14th month, Israel is focusing its operations in the north and centre in what it says is a campaign to stop Hamas militants waging attacks and to prevent them from regrouping.
SAUDI AID CONTINUES TO REACH THOUSANDS IN GAZA, LEBANON
Saudi aid agency KSrelief is continuing to provide essential food baskets to families in northern Gaza, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday. (SPA)
Updated 09 November 2024 Arab News November 09, 202417:39
RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief is continuing to provide essential food baskets to families in northern Gaza, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
THE RELIEF EFFORT IS BEING CONDUCTED IN COOPERATION WITH THE SAUDI CENTER FOR CULTURE AND HERITAGE AS PART OF A CAMPAIGN INITIATED UNDER THE DIRECTIVES OF THE SAUDI LEADERSHIP.
The humanitarian situation in northern Gaza remains dire, exacerbated by ongoing hostilities and border closures. Saudi aid is crucial to supporting families as they confront daily hardships and critical shortages.
Meanwhile, the 21st aid plane sent from Riyadh to Lebanon arrived at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport on Saturday, carrying food, shelter and medical supplies. The aid, handled by KSrelief, will be used to assist the growing number of people displaced by Israeli airstrikes. The UAE, Turkiye, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Canada, Romania and France are also sending aid to Lebanon.
Since its inception in 2015, KSrelief has implemented more than 3,100 projects worth more than $7.1 billion in 104 countries, in cooperation with local, regional and international partners.
SAUDI ARABIA CONTINUES RELIEF OPERATIONS IN LEBANON
Saudi Arabia, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, sent its 19th relief plane to Lebanon carrying humanitarian supplies. (SPA)
Updated 08 November 2024 Arab News November 07, 202409:00
RIYADH: SAUDI ARABIA, THROUGH THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER (KSRELIEF), SENT ITS 19TH RELIEF PLANE TO LEBANON CARRYING HUMANITARIAN SUPPLIES SUCH AS FOOD, SHELTER AND MEDICAL AID. This news comes as the 20th relief plane took off from King Khalid International Airport on Thursday to deliver additional supplies for the Lebanese people. The continuing relief mission aims to alleviate the suffering of those affected in Lebanon and is part of the Kingdom’s support across various humanitarian and relief sectors.
MILLIONS OF NIGERIANS GO HUNGRY AS FLOODS COMPOUND HARDSHIP
Workers prepare food to be distributed to people displaced by the floods at Gubio IDP camp in Maiduguri, Nigeria October 28, 2024. (Reuters)
Updated 13 November 2024 Reuters November 13, 202407:00
GUBIO: UNRELENTING PRICE RISES AND A BRUTAL INSURGENCY HAD ALREADY MADE IT HARD FOR NIGERIANS IN NORTHEASTERN BORNO STATE TO FEED THEIR FAMILIES. WHEN A DAM COLLAPSED IN SEPTEMBER, FLOODING THE STATE CAPITAL AND SURROUNDING FARMLAND, MANY PEOPLE RAN OUT OF OPTIONS.
NOW THEY QUEUE FOR HANDOUTS IN CAMPS FOR THOSE DISPLACED by fighting between extremist Boko Haram rebels and the military. When those run out, they seek work on local farms where they risk being killed or raped by local bandits.
“I can’t even cry anymore. I’m too tired,” said Indo Usman, who tried to start again in the state capital Maiduguri, REARING ANIMALS FOR THE TWO ANNUAL MUSLIM HOLY DAYS, after years of repeatedly fleeing rebel attacks in rural Borno.
TORRENTIAL RAINS AND FLOODS IN 29 OF NIGERIA’S 36 STATES THIS YEAR HAVE DESTROYED MORE THAN 1.5 MILLION HECTARES OF CROPLAND, AFFECTING MORE THAN NINE MILLION PEOPLE, ACCORDING TO THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS.
Climate change is a factor, as is Nigeria’s poorly maintained or non-existent infrastructure as well as vulnerabilities caused by the weakening Naira currency and the scrapping of a government fuel subsidy.
THE COST OF STAPLES LIKE RICE AND BEANS HAS DOUBLED, TRIPLED OR EVEN QUADRUPLED IN A YEAR, DEPENDING ON LOCATION — AN UNMANAGEABLE SHOCK FOR MILLIONS OF POOR FAMILIES. Mass kidnappings for ransom in the northwest and conflict between farmers and pastoralists in the central belt, TRADITIONALLY THE NATION’S BREAD BASKET, HAVE ALSO DISRUPTED AGRICULTURE AND SQUEEZED FOOD SUPPLIES.
’HUNGRIEST OF THE HUNGRY’
ROUGHLY 40 PERCENT OF NIGERIA’S MORE THAN 200 MILLION PEOPLE LIVE BELOW THE INTERNATIONAL POVERTY LINE OF $2.15 PER PERSON PER DAY, the World Bank estimates. ALREADY, 25 MILLION PEOPLE LIVE IN ACUTE FOOD AND NUTRITION INSECURITY — putting their lives or livelihoods in immediate danger, according to a joint analysis by the government and UN agencies. That number is expected to rise to 33 million by next June-August.
“The food crisis in Nigeria is immense because what WE ARE SEEING IS A CRISIS WITHIN A CRISIS WITHIN A CRISIS,” Said Trust Mlambo, head of program for the northeast at the World Food Programme, in an interview with Reuters in Maiduguri.
With international donors focused on emergencies in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan, Mlambo said there was not enough funding to fully meet Nigeria’s growing need for food aid.
“WE ARE REALLY PRIORITISING THE HUNGRIEST OF THE HUNGRY,” he said.
In Borno, the Alau dam, upriver from Maiduguri, gave way on Sept. 9, four days after state officials had told the public it was secure. Local residents and engineers had been warning that it was under strain.
HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WERE KILLED IN THE RESULTING FLOOD, according to aid workers who did not wish to be identified for fear of offending the state government. A spokesperson for the state government did not respond to requests for comment. Zainab Abubakar, a self-employed tailor in the city who lived in relative comfort with her husband and six children in a house with a refrigerator, was awoken at midnight by water rushing into her bedroom.
They ran for their lives while the flood destroyed their house and carried everything away, including her sewing machine. Now, they are sheltering at Gubio and collecting rice from aid agencies in a plastic bucket.
“There is no alternative,” she said.
In Banki, on Nigeria’s border with Cameroon about 133 km (83 miles) southeast of Maiduguri, Mariam Hassan LOST CROPS OF MAIZE, PEPPER AND THEN OKRA IN REPEATED FLOODING OF HER SUBSISTENCE FARM THIS YEAR, LEAVING HER WITH NOTHING TO EAT OR SELL.
“I beg the neighbors or relatives to give me food, not even for me but for my children, for us to survive,” said Hassan, who has eight children. “The situation has turned me into a beggar.”
FAMINE LOOMING IN MYANMAR’S RAKHINE STATE: UN
Updated 08 November 2024 AFP November 08, 202403:53
UNITED NATIONS: Myanmar’s conflict-torn Rakhine state is HEADING TOWARD FAMINE, the United Nations warned on Thursday, as THE COUNTRY’S CIVIL WAR SQUEEZES COMMERCE AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION. “Rakhine’s ECONOMY HAS STOPPED FUNCTIONING,” a new report from the UN Development Programme said, PROJECTING “FAMINE CONDITIONS BY MID-2025” IF CURRENT LEVELS OF FOOD INSECURITY ARE LEFT UNADDRESSED.
SOME TWO MILLION PEOPLE ARE AT RISK OF STARVATION, it said. Amid the fighting roiling the country, INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC TRADE ROUTES LEADING INTO THE ALREADY IMPOVERISHED STATE HAVE BEEN CLOSED, LEAVING THE ENTRANCE OF AID AND GOODS SEVERELY RESTRICTED. In addition to intense fighting, people in Rakhine are facing “absence of incomes, hyperinflation (and) SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED DOMESTIC FOOD PRODUCTION,” the UNDP report warned.
Clashes have rocked western Rakhine since the Arakan Army (AA) attacked security forces in November 2023, ending a ceasefire that had largely held since the junta’s 2021 coup. WITH THE FARMING ECONOMY IN CRISIS, THE UNDP PREDICTED LOCAL FOOD PRODUCTION WOULD ONLY COVER 20 PERCENT OF THE STATE’S NEEDS BY MARCH OR APRIL. INTERNAL RICE PRODUCTION IS “PLUMMETING,” IT SAID, DUE TO “A LACK OF SEEDS, FERTILIZERS (AND) SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS.”
Some 97,000 tons of rice are set to be cultivated in Rakhine this year, compared to 282,000 tons last year, according to the UNDP. A “steep rise” in internally displaced people, meanwhile, means MANY FIELDS ARE UNABLE TO BE WORKED.
According to UN figures, Rakhine state recorded MORE THAN 500,000 DISPLACED PEOPLE IN AUGUST, compared to just under 200,000 in October 2023.
Facing particular risk are populations including members of the long-persecuted Rohingya Muslim minority and displaced people.
WORLD MUST BE PREPARED FOR MYANMAR’S ECONOMIC COLLAPSE
Dr. Azeem Ibrahim November 15, 202421:34 ARAB NEWS
The dire situation in Myanmar has taken a turn that could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe across Southeast Asia. According to a UN report published last week, Myanmar faces a stark economic collapse, with conditions especially severe in Rakhine State, where the Rohingya population has already been subject to years of discrimination, displacement and neglect. The international community, particularly Myanmar’s neighbors, must prepare to address the impending collapse of Myanmar’s economy — a collapse that will have far-reaching effects on regional stability and security.
Myanmar’s economy, crippled by years of military dictatorship, mismanagement and international sanctions, now teeters on the edge of complete collapse. With inflation soaring, critical shortages of essential goods and a currency in freefall, millions of people are falling into poverty and basic subsistence is increasingly out of reach for Myanmar’s most vulnerable populations.
This crisis is especially severe in areas like Rakhine State, home to a significant Rohingya population and other minorities who face barriers to accessing food, medicine and basic services. These conditions may soon lead to widespread famine and disease outbreaks, further straining the limited resources available.
Rakhine State is ground zero for what could become one of the worst humanitarian crises of our time. The Rohingya, already living under precarious conditions, face an even graver reality. Years of discriminatory policies, including restricted access to markets and government-controlled distribution systems, have left the Rohingya severely marginalized. As Myanmar’s economy plummets, food prices are skyrocketing and local production is increasingly disrupted by armed conflict and the military’s brutal crackdowns.
For the Rohingya, who are largely dependent on outside aid and have limited mobility to seek work or supplies, this means impending starvation. Even as humanitarian organizations attempt to provide relief, access to these vulnerable populations remains tightly controlled by Myanmar’s military, the Tatmadaw. The international community must be cognizant that, without intervention, Rakhine could see starvation levels not witnessed in the region for generations.
Rakhine State is ground zero for what could become one of the worst humanitarian crises of our time
Dr. Azeem Ibrahim
Regional powers — especially India, Thailand, Bangladesh and China — must recognize that Myanmar’s economic and humanitarian crisis will not be contained within its borders. Mass migration, infectious diseases and increased demand for resources could exacerbate tensions in countries already grappling with their own challenges.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, as a regional bloc, must take the lead in convening an emergency task force to manage Myanmar’s crisis. ASEAN’s long-standing policy of noninterference is counterproductive in the face of such a humanitarian disaster. Instead, a regional response plan that involves food distribution, humanitarian corridors and diplomatic efforts to engage Myanmar’s military is critical.
Countries like Thailand and Malaysia, which have hosted large numbers of displaced people from Myanmar, should be instrumental in establishing temporary safe havens, while also pressuring the Tatmadaw to allow access to aid.
China, a powerful neighbor with economic interests in Myanmar, also has a role to play. While Beijing has historically supported Myanmar’s military leadership, the extent of the economic collapse and its consequences may compel China to reevaluate its position. It has the leverage to pressure the Tatmadaw to open channels for humanitarian aid and it should prioritize stabilization over immediate profit. If the crisis escalates into a mass famine, China’s role as a stabilizing force in the region could be jeopardized. In addition, any significant displacement crisis along Myanmar’s borders will ultimately impact China’s domestic stability and interests.
India, too, must act as a responsible regional power. With its own eastern regions susceptible to influxes of refugees, India’s best move would be to support Bangladesh and Thailand in establishing temporary aid stations along the Myanmar border and to use diplomatic channels to urge Myanmar to accept international aid.
The international community has a moral imperative to step up its involvement in Myanmar’s crisis. Unfortunately, the current sanctions regime, while aimed at penalizing the Tatmadaw, has compounded the suffering of ordinary people. A new approach is necessary, one that includes targeted relief measures designed to bypass military control and reach those who need it most.
The current sanctions regime, while aimed at penalizing the Tatmadaw, has compounded the suffering of ordinary people
Dr. Azeem Ibrahim
The UN, working with ASEAN and other international organizations, should establish a coordinated aid program that prioritizes food and medicine distribution in Rakhine and other vulnerable areas. Additionally, there must be a strong diplomatic push to create a humanitarian corridor into Myanmar. A mix of incentives and sanctions could be offered to encourage Myanmar’s military leadership to permit this access. The program should emphasize accountability and transparency to ensure that resources are not co-opted by the Tatmadaw but go directly to at-risk populations.
International donors and development banks must also consider offering support to Myanmar’s regional neighbors to ease the strain caused by any resulting displacement and increased food and resource demands. By supporting these countries economically, the global community can help stabilize the entire region, creating a buffer against Myanmar’s spillover effects.
Beyond immediate relief, the international community must recognize that Myanmar’s crisis will require a long-term strategy. Even if the current economic collapse can be mitigated, rebuilding Myanmar’s economy and stabilizing its political landscape will take years. Sustainable solutions will require a concerted effort to address the root causes of Myanmar’s instability, including the military’s unyielding control over the state.
Myanmar’s regional neighbors and the wider international community must be prepared for the possibility that Myanmar could become a failed state if current trends continue. Establishing mechanisms for continuous aid, development assistance and support for democratic institutions in Myanmar will be crucial. • Dr. Azeem Ibrahim is the director of special initiatives at the Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy in Washington, DC.
AMID WAR AND DEEP HUNGER, GAZA FISHERMAN STRUGGLE TO FEED FAMILIES
Updated 03 November 2024 Reuters November 03, 202421:47
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip: After over a year of war in Gaza, Palestinian FISHERMEN GATHER ALONG THE COASTLINE, DESPERATELY CASTING THEIR NETS IN HOPES OF CATCHING ENOUGH FOR THEIR FAMILIES AMID WIDESPREAD HUNGER.
Since Israel began a military onslaught in Gaza after Hamas’ October 2023 attack, Israeli restrictions in the waters off the enclave have made life almost impossible for fishermen, who no longer sail out to sea and instead must stay by the shore.
In Khan Younis, Ibrahim Ghurab, 71, and Waseem Al Masry, 24, fish for sardines from the shoreline in front of an encampment of tents and makeshift shelters for those displaced by the war.
“Life is difficult,” Ghurab said. “ONE TRIES TO SECURE FOOD. THERE IS NO AID, WE DON’T RECEIVE ANYTHING ANYMORE. IN THE BEGINNING THERE WAS SOME (HUMANITARIAN) AID, VERY LITTLE, BUT NOW THERE IS NO MORE.”
Fishermen like Ghurab and Al Masry struggle daily to bring in even a modest catch to feed their families. There is rarely any fish left over from a daily haul to be sold to others.
Fishing was an important part of daily life in Gaza before the war, helping people eke out a living by selling their daily hauls in the market and feed the population.
But scant aid is reaching Gaza amid Israeli restrictions and frequent fighting, and many people have no income. THE PRICE OF SIMPLE GOODS ARE LARGELY OUT OF REACH FOR MOST.
“We have to come here and risk our lives,” Al Masry said, describing shootings by the Israeli military from the sea that he accused of targeting fisherman on the beach in Khan Younis.
Ghurab similarly said that Israeli military boats had fired upon fisherman at Khan Younis. The Israeli military did not respond to Reuters requests for comment on the claims the military had shot at fishermen.
Israel’s retaliatory war against Hamas for the Islamist militant group’s deadly, cross-border attack on Oct. 7, 2023 has devastated densely populated Gaza and displaced most of the 2.3 million population.
KSRELIEF CONTINUES HUMANITARIAN OUTREACH IN JORDAN, AFGHANISTAN AND LEBANON
Updated 23 sec ago Arab News November 23, 202407:56
RIYADH: THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER (KSRELIEF) CONTINUES ITS HUMANITARIAN ACTIVITIES IN JORDAN, AFGHANISTAN AND LEBANON WITH THE PROVISION OF MEDICAL SERVICES AND DISTRIBUTION OF BASIC NEEDS TO INDIVIDUALS.
At Jordan’s Zaatri Camp, the Saudi aid agency provided medical services to 2,738 patients during the second week of November. General practitioners treated 657 patients, internists saw 125 patients dealing with diabetes, hypertension and asthma. The pediatric clinic examined 270 children, while the emergency department attended to 297 patients. Meanwhile, dentists attended to 183 patients
The gynecology clinic served 182 women while ear, nose, and throat doctors clinic treated 57 patients for conditions such as sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and otitis media. The ophthalmology clinic assisted 51 patients and provided them with medications. The cardiology clinic received 27 patients, and the diagnostic radiology clinic conducted examinations for 25 patients.
Other medical services provided also included laboratory tests, x-rays and vaccinations. In Afghanistan, 200 shelter kits and 200 tents have been handed out for the benefit of 1,200 individuals as part of a project for returnees from Pakistan to Afghanistan and those affected by flooding.
In Lebanon, KSrelief distributed 530 purchase coupons to orphans and people with disabilities in Akkar region, Beirut, central and western Bekaa and Armoun. The coupons allow recipients to buy winter clothing of their choice from approved stores.
KSRELIEF DISTRIBUTES AID TO MOST NEEDY IN LEBANON, CHAD AND SYRIA
Updated 42 sec ago Arab News November 18, 202409:33
RIYADH: SAUDI AID AGENCY KSRELIEF HAS DELIVERED MORE AID TO THOSE MOST IN NEED IN LEBANON, CHAD AND SYRIA, REPORTED THE SAUDI PRESS AGENCY. In Chari-Baguirmi, Chad, the agency delivered 1,600 food parcels that benefitted 9,600 people. A further 333 food aid parcels and 333 hygiene kits were distributed in the Idlib region of Syria to help 1,998 individuals from 333 families who were affected by last year’s devastating earthquake. And in Lebanon, winter clothing vouchers were given to 300 orphans and people with special needs in Akkar governorate. These will help them buy clothing for the forthcoming winter.
KSRELIEF CONTINUES HUMANITARIAN WORK IN GAZA, JORDAN AND YEMEN
Updated 1 min 52 sec ago Arab News November 16, 20
RIYADH: THE KING SALMAN HUMANITARIAN AID AND RELIEF CENTER’S (KSRELIEF) HUMANITARIAN ACTIVITIES CONTINUE WITH THE DELIVERY OF FOOD AND MEDICAL SERVICES IN GAZA, JORDAN AND YEMEN.
At the Gaza Strip, the Saudi aid agency deployed a convoy of 30 trucks loaded with 10,560 shelter bags filled with essential supplies allocated for the Palestinian people, and to be distributed through the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organization. In Jordan’s Zaatari Camp, KSrelief clinics provided medical services to 2,483 refugee patients. The internal medicine specialists treated 122 patients suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma; pediatricians received 285 children, while the emergency medical doctors treated 253 patients, among others. In Hadhramaut governorate of Yemen, KSrelief delivered a new batch of hemodialysis solutions and supplies to the Fatima Babtain Center for kidney failure patients in Sayoun.
KSRELIEF CONTINUES INTERNATIONAL RELIEF EFFORTS IN CHAD, PAKISTAN
Some 201 food parcels, benefiting 1,206 people, were distributed in Chad. (SPA)
Updated 08 November 2024 Arab News November 08, 202410:14
RIYADH: SAUDI AID AGENCY KSRELIEF HAS DELIVERED AID TO PEOPLE MOST IN NEED IN CHAD AND PAKISTAN, REPORTED THE SAUDI PRESS AGENCY.
Some 201 food parcels, benefiting 1,206 people, were distributed in the village of Sharkaya, in Hajar Lamis province, as part of the 2024 Food Security Support Project in the Republic of Chad. Aid has also been given to 10,500 vulnerable people in flood-affected areas of Pakistan as part of the fourth phase of KSrelief’s initiative to provide shelter materials and winter bags to the country.
MARK OF THE BEAST: INFRARED QR CODE, MICRONEEDLE VACCINATION SMART PATCH MARK
666. THE NUMBER OF THE PRINCE, BEAST, ANTICHRIST, MAHDI, 12TH IMAM
A BIBLICAL BOTTOMLESS PIT OF EVIL: SEVEN SAUDI KINGS AND THE BEAST
FIVE-FOLD SINS RESULTING IN MEN’S ETERNAL DAMNATION:
- Worship the beast. (6X). (Rev. 13:4, 13:8, 13:12, 14:9, 14:11)
- Worship the beast’s image. (6X). (Rev. 13:14, 13:15, 14:9, 14:11, 16:2, 19:20)
- Take the beast’s mark. (6X). (Rev. 13:16, 13:17, 14:9, 14:11, 16:2, 19:20)
- Take the beast’s number. (2X). (Rev. 13:17, 13:18)
- Take the beast’s name. (2X). (Rev. 13:17, 14:11)
Commentary: There are a total of eighteen (18) verses that indicate the eternal sins of damnation that result from worshipping the beast, worshipping his image and taking his mark of identification. Three (3) denotes God’s emphasis and intensity. Six (6) denotes the evil number of man = 18, or 6+6+6 = 18, or 666 . . . “Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is he number of a man; and his number is Six Hundred and threescore and six (666).” (Rev. 13:18). Worshipping the beast, his image and taking his mark are the eternal sins that men commit during the Tribulation.
There are a total of ten (10) combined references of evil men taking the beast’s mark, number or name. These three descriptions are synonymous with being identified with (or belonging) to the beast and his system. Ten (10) denotes God’s allness or physical completeness regarding things on earth. These ten references indicate man’s complete earthly evilness and damnation resulting from taking either the mark, number of name of the beast and his kingdom.
These men are so deceived and evil, that they not only allow themselves to worship the beast and his fake image, but they allow themselves to be physically ‘branded’ or marked in order to be identified with the beast. Evil men obtain this mark, number or name so they can also participate in the global economy in terms of buying and selling. They have to be identified as having this mark, number or name, physically evident on either their right hand or forehead, in order to be allowed to execute a purchasing or selling transaction. Once evil men worship the beast, his image and take his mark (or number, name), they are damned.
There are three verses regarding a very specific, powerful and clear angelic warning given to men on earth, to NOT worship the beast, or his image, or take his mark (name, number). Three (3) denotes God’s emphasis and intensity.
. . . “And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.” (Rev. 14:9, 14:10, 14:11)
Twice (2) the message is directed at men. The angel repeats himself indicating that the message is for men and what behavior is judged eternally sinful (for ever and ever). Men who worship the beast, his image and take his mark will;
- Experience God’s wrath.
- God’s wrath will not be diluted, or held back, but given in full strength.
- They will be thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone for torment.
- There torment will be forever and ever (eternity).
- Their torment will be witnessed by holy angels.
- Their torment will take place in the presence of the Lamb.
- They will have no rest day or night, forever and ever (eternity).
There are seven (7) specific results that stem from men worshipping the beast, his image and taking his mark (name or number). Seven (7) denotes God’s divinely determined completeness as to his purpose or plan. Eternal punishment in the lake of fire and brimstone, day and night is the strongest wrath that God gives evil men (and Satan, beast/antichrist and false prophet). There is a specific mention that this torment takes place in the presence of the Lamb. These men, while in their torment, will see or consciously be aware of the existence of Jesus Christ. This will provide added pain, anguish and misery since they will be painfully made aware of the choice of their decisions (to worship the beast, his image and take his mark). They were warned not to do what they did.
The Bible gives plenty of examples of the glory that is given to those who did NOT worship the beast, his image or take his mark. Yet, despite the angelic warning . . . despite the 3 ½ year testimony of two witness and prophets . . . despite the witnessing of Tribulation Saints . . . despite the flying angel who proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ . . . evil men still chose to worship the beast, his image and to take his mark, name or number.
They chose to ignore the messages, the warnings, and the testimonies. And now, they are in the lake of fire and brimstone, and will have to pay the price for their evil decision(s), for eternity. They see Jesus Christ, and have become painfully aware of what they could have had through Jesus Christ and instead, they chose the false, empty promises of Satan by worshipping the beast, his image and taking his mark, name or number.
Their extreme bitterness and woeful regret will emotionally torment them for eternity, in addition to the physical pain, suffering and torment that they will experience in the lake of fire for eternity. Through their decision to follow Satan, God gave them exactly what they wanted. They did not want anything to do with Jesus Christ, who paid for their sins with his own blood. As such, God gave them over to Satan, since it was their free decision or choice, and what they desired while they were physically alive on earth.
These evil men did everything humanly possible to ignore warnings, to blaspheme God, to ignore the gospel of Jesus Christ, and instead they accepted and believed in lies, worshipped Satan, the beast and his image. Evil men even went so far as to physically defile their bodies (flesh) by taking the branding (mark, number or name) of the beast. All of these actions and behaviors enabled evil men to give themselves totally and wholeheartedly over to Satan through his system of the beast/antichrist and the false prophet.
There are two visions describing what John the Apostle saw, regarding men who were overcomers (them that had gotten victory) by NOT worshipping the beast, his image or taking his mark, number or name.
. . . “And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgements are made manifest.” (Rev. 15:2, 15:3, 15:4).
. . . “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgement was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.” (Rev. 20:4).
Men who do NOT worship the beast, his image and take his mark are described as;
- They are in heaven (stand on a sea of glass).
- They have harps of God.
- They sing praises and worship Jesus Christ for their salvation.
- They acknowledge that God’s judgements came to pass.
- They are given thrones upon which they sit upon.
- They are given judgement.
- They live and reign with Christ for a thousand years.
There are seven (7) specific results that stem from men NOT worshipping the beast, his image and taking his mark (name or number). Seven (7) denotes God’s divinely determined completeness as to his purpose or plan. These blessings or glories are the complete opposite of what awaits those men who DID worship the beast, his image and took his mark, name, number.
- The righteous are in heaven for eternity versus evil men who are in the lake of fire and brimstone for eternity.
- The righteous are joyful and play harps versus evil men who are bitter, resentful, angry, tormented, cry and wail in anguish.
- The righteous sing the praise of and worship Jesus Christ versus evil men who once praised and worshipped Satan (through the beast, his image and in taking his mark).
- Righteous men acknowledge that what God said would come to pass, in fact did come to pass (made manifest) versus evil men who ignored and rejected warnings, the gospel and testimonies of the truth.
- The righteous are given thrones in heaven versus evil men who are drowning in torment in the lake of fire.
- The righteous are given judgement versus evil men who are judged.
- The righteous live and reign with Christ verses evil men who die and fall with Satan.
The avoidance of doing these five (5) eternal sins is one of the most important themes, in the entire book of Revelation. Men must avoid doing these things, literally at all costs. Even to the point of being beheaded or martyred. Men’s eternal destinies depend on it. Worshipping the beast, his image and taking his mark, name or number result in eternal damnation. There is no way of sugar coating or downplaying this reality.
The avoidance of doing these five (5) eternal sins is one of the most important themes, in the entire book of Revelation. Men must avoid doing these things, literally at all costs. Even to the point of being beheaded or martyred. Men’s eternal destinies depend on it. Worshipping the beast, his image and taking his mark, name or number result in eternal damnation. There is no way of sugar coating or downplaying this reality.
12 REFERENCES TO JUDGE / JUDGING / JUDGEMENT:
- . . . “And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not JUDGE AND AVENGE OUR BLOOD on them that dwell on the earth.” (Rev. 6:10).
- . . . “And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that THEY SHOULD BE JUDGED, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest DESTROY THEM WHICH DESTROY THE EARTH.” (Rev. 11:18).
- . . . “Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for THE HOUR OF HIS JUDGEMENT IS COME: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” (Rev. 14:7).
- . . . “Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for THY ARE MADE MANIFEST.” (Rev. 15:4).
- . . . “And I heard the angel of the water say, Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, BECAUSE THOU HAST JUDGED THUS.” (Rev. 16:5).
- . . . “And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS ARE THY JUDGMENTS.” (Rev. 16:7).
- . . . “And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee THE JUDGEMENT OF THE GREAT WHORE that sitteth upon many waters:” (Rev. 17:1).
- . . . “Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for STRONG IS THE LORD GOD WHO JUDGETH HER.” (Rev. 18:8).
- . . . “Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For IN ONE HOUR IS THY JUDGEMENT COME.” (Rev. 18:10).
- . . . “For TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS ARE HIS JUDGEMENTS: for HE HATH JUDGED THE GREAT WHORE, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath AVENGED THE BLOOD OF HIS SERVANTS at her hand.” (Rev. 19:2).
- . . .And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and THE DEAD WERE JUDGED OUT OF THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE WRITTEN IN THE BOOKS, ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS.” (Rev. 20:12).
- . . . “And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and THEY WERE JUDGED EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS.” (Rev. 20:13).
JUDGING OR JUDGEMENT IS DESCRIBED AS;
God is the judge and provides judgements or decisions based on the actions, behaviors and deeds of men and angels.
Judgement is a decision requested to be made on behalf of someone (Tribulation Saints) who were wrongfully hurt (beheaded).
Someone (nations) are caught bloody red handed and are angry knowing that they will be judged for their actions, behavior and evil deeds. They are angry because they didn’t get away with it and were caught. They know they are going to have pay a price which they can’t afford.
Judgement is a request that someone be righted a wrong done to them.
Judgement is a request for a reward promised based on a stated outcome.
Judgement is based on timing. An evil act is done, its results are noted and accounted for. Time comes for the evil act to be judged and the resulting judgement exercised or made manifest.
Judgement, or the decision of what should be done has to be acted upon or made to occur (sent to prison). This is known as making a judgement manifest or physically exercised. This is the doing of what should be done.
Witnesses in the public gallery indicate that God’s judgements are “true and righteous.” This means that the public gallery can attest to the fact that God did take everything into account, all the details, actions, deeds, events, behaviors, statements, intents and came to the correct and truthful conclusion regarding the matter. Nothing was left out. Everything was taken into consideration as evidence, properly evaluated and applied against the benchmark, standard and/or law that was being applied. God’s administration of justice and his resulting judgements are found to be accurate, spot on, truthful, correct, no question about it. In Biblical words, “true and righteous.”
God is described as judging the “great whore” a.k.a. Babylon City (the great worldly capital of the beast’s/antichrist’s kingdom).
God is strong, meaning he can’t be swayed or weak in the sense that he lets some evil slide a bit in terms of not being judged or of receiving judgement. He is firm in his judgements and not weak-kneed. He does not fold under public pressure. He can’t be influenced, bribed, manipulated or pushed by a particular special interest group, lobby or entrenched political ideology or group. He is strong, firm, steadfast, unwavering in the application of his administration of justice.
God’s judgement comes very swiftly, within “one hour.” There is no long drawn out period of rebuttals, challenges, reviews, counter-suits, passing on to a higher court, etc. A decision is made and done. The action of the decision is made manifest, very quickly. There is no delay in the manifestation of the decision. Babylon City is destroyed within one hour, split into three parts by a very great earthquake, consumed by fire and hammered by 100lb. hailstones (weight of a talent). Period.
There is no punishment meted out in stages, over a long period of time. There is no slap on the wrist that comes with an admonition to don’t do it again. The celestial sledgehammer is dropped quickly and decisively, no force is held back.
God’s judgement includes not only the living but also the dead. Jesus Christ opens his book of life, to see if a dead man’s name is in it. The book of life is not unlike an accounting ledger that records all the debits and credits amassed over a period of time. These debits and credits are referred to as “according to their works.” If a man’s name is found in his book of life, Jesus acknowledges as much to the Father and “confesses the man’s name even to the angels.” Through Jesus Christ and his book of life, God is able to righteously judge dead men. Jesus’ book of life accounts for everyone, past, present and future.
Numbers within numbers, meanings within meanings. Twelve (12) descriptions of judging or judgement and twelve (12) references or verses from throughout the book of Revelation. Judging / Judgement. (Def.); to form a conclusion about a subject or outcome, to decide as in a case of court, to give a verdict about someone or something in court as truthful, applying the administration of justice and truthfulness. Only God and Jesus Christ are the judges. Period.
Only God and Jesus Christ do the judging. Period. Only God and Jesus Christ reward, withhold or punish. Period. Only God and Jesus Christ are judge, jury, and jailer. God has his wrath. Jesus Christ has the keys to heaven and hell. Having judgement and exercising judgement is derived from authority and rule. One can only be a judge if they have the authority to judge and the right to judge. One has to be competent to judge, to be able to discern right from wrong, truth from lies, good from evil, just from unjust, righteousness from unrighteousness, clarity from deception, godly from ungodliness, saved from unsaved.
To be able to judge, one has to know all the facts, all the outcomes, all the intents, all the behaviors and apply these against a benchmark, a standard, a law that determines whether the data observed meet the benchmark, standard or law. Since God is omnipotent and knows everything occurring past, present and future, he is supremely just in knowing everything to take into account in performing judgement. He is the only one capable of exercising correct, truthful and righteous judgement because he can and does take everything into consideration when exercising his administration of justice.
Jesus Christ is the benchmark, the standard and/or the law. Jesus Christ paid our court fees, he paid the bail, and also paid a very expensive price so we wouldn’t have to go to jail, to the dungeon, to the hangman or to the lake of fire. God’s law of righteousness and truthfulness is;
Admit/Acknowledge/Accept that you are sinner. Ask God’s forgiveness and repent of your sins.
. . .For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
. . .As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one. (Romans 3:10)
. . .If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (1 John 1:8)
Believe Jesus is Lord. Believe that Jesus Christ is who He claimed to be; that He was both fully God and fully man and that we are saved through His death, burial, and resurrection. Put your trust in Him as your only hope of salvation. Become a son or daughter of God by receiving Christ.
. . .That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:15-17). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13)
Call upon His name, Confess with your heart and with your lips that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.
. . .That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:9-10)
This is the benchmark, standard and/or law by which God judges men. If Jesus Christ finds a man who meets this benchmark, standard and/or law, he acknowledges and confesses the man’s name before God as belonging to him and having meet the requirements. Jesus Christ acts as our lawyer, on our behalf, in the administration of God’s justice. Jesus saves us in God’s court of law and in the administration of God’s justice.
THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT
GREAT WHITE THRONE AND ETERNAL JUDGEMENT
SEVEN-FOLD REFERENCE TO LAKE OF FIRE JUDGEMENT:
- “He that hath an ear, let hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of THE SECOND DEATH (LAKE OF FIRE).” (Rev. 2:11).
- “The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he SHALL BE TORMENTED WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever; and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosover receiveth the mark of his name.” (Rev. 14:10-11).
- “And THE BEAST was taken, and with him THE FALSE PROPHET that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These BOTH WERE CAST ALIVE INTO A LAKE OF FIRE BURNING WITH BRIMSTONE.” (Rev. 19:20).
- “And the devil that deceived them was cast into THE LAKE OF FIRE AND BRIMSTONE, WHERE THE BEAST AND THE FALSE PROPHET ARE, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.” (Rev. 20:10).
- “And death and hell were cast into THE LAKE OF FIRE. THIS IS THE SECOND DEATH.” (Rev. 20:14).
- “And whosover was not found written in the book of life WAS CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE.” (Rev. 20:15).
- “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part IN THE LAKE WHICH BURNETH WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE: WHICH IS THE SECOND DEATH.” (Rev. 21:8).
The lake of fire is also known as the ‘second death’. This is the final place of burning, everlasting torment for Satan, the antichrist, the false prophet and those un-saved, un-believing souls from throughout the ages found NOT to be in the book of life, at the white throne judgement, at the end of the Millennium. The lake of fire and second death are also reserved for those deceived during the Tribulation who took the mark of the beast and worshipped him and his image.
The evil dead are resurrected to be judged by Christ for their evil works and for their rejection of Him who offered himself for their salvation and forgiveness of their sins. As a result of their sins and judgment, they are cast into the lake of fire that represents a second death (the first death being physical body death and souls/spirits being in Hell). The evil dead are resurrected into bodies and cast into the lake of fire to be severely tormented, having no rest day or night, and are absent from a loving God and their Savior who offered himself for them.
THE GREAT IRONY IS THAT THESE PEOPLE RECEIVED EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANTED. THEY REFUSED CHRIST AND WANTED NOTHING TO DO WITH HIM, THEY WANTED TO EXIST IN ETERNITY WITHOUT COMMUNION WITH GOD AND CHRIST, ON THEIR OWN TERMS. THEY LITERALLY RECEIVED WHAT THEY ASKED FOR. THE STENCH OF THEIR PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL TORMENT RISES UP IN SMOKE, FOR ETERNITY.
God made both man and angels as eternal beings, hence they will exist forever in one state or another. Which state will any of us choose to exist in? The choice is up to us, and God grants us the freedom to make that choice for ourselves. For better or worse, we have no one to blame (certainly not God) except ourselves for whatever choices we make on earth.
MOST PEOPLE DON’T REALISE THIS UNTILL IT’S TOO LATE: STANDING AT THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST
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