DAMASCUS — Concerns have been raised regarding the reluctance of some governments to increase financial support for pressing humanitarian issues in Syria, particularly with the establishment of new interim authorities following the exit of former President Bashar Assad, as stated by the director of the U.N. World Food Program (WFP).

Cindy McCain, the head of WFP, highlighted that the crisis of hunger in Syria poses significant national and regional security challenges during this vital transition phase for the nation. “The stakes extend beyond hunger, although that alone is substantial. This is about the future of Syria and its progression into a new era,” she stated during an interview, marking her inaugural visit to Syria after discussions with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani from the newly established government.

Following a rapid insurgency led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) last December, Syria has been under the control of this new de facto administration for over a month, ending an approximately 14-year conflict characterized by Assad’s regime.

Humanitarian organizations, including the WFP, have consistently lamented budget reductions impacting their ability to assist millions of Syrians. The United Nations estimates that around 90% of the Syrian population is living in poverty, while more than 12 million people are struggling to secure their next meal. The effects of war have also severely damaged the country’s essential electricity and water systems. The WFP has pointed to diminishing budgets and donor fatigue as factors exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine.

Last year, the WFP was forced to terminate its primary assistance program that provided much-needed food to millions of Syrians and has since been gradually scaling back aid efforts for Syrian refugees in surrounding countries.

Currently operating under the leadership of HTS’s Ahmad al-Sharaa, Syria is experiencing a pivotal transformation that both regional and international stakeholders hope will facilitate the creation of a new constitution, democratic elections, and a more inclusive political framework.

In her discussions with al-Shibani, McCain emphasized the urgent requirement to improve food distribution and enhance local food production capabilities, specifically addressing the restoration of the damaged water supply and the need to boost wheat cultivation. “From what I gathered in today’s talks, the government seems receptive to these initiatives,” she commented.

However, securing adequate funding remains a critical challenge. With diminishing financial support from Western nations, humanitarian groups have increasingly sought help from Arab countries, particularly affluent Gulf states. Despite these nations promptly establishing diplomatic relations with the new Syrian authorities, McCain noted that there is still hesitance among donors to contribute.

“It is vital for the Gulf nations to take a proactive stance, especially since this region significantly affects them,” McCain remarked. “We hope to see them involved not just in meeting immediate emergency needs but also addressing long-term requirements.”

The governments in this region, along with several aid organizations, have also advocated for the lifting of Western-imposed sanctions affecting various parts of Syria, which have hindered development efforts beyond mere aid distributions. Although most sanctions targeted Assad and his close allies, HTS and al-Sharaa also face sanctions from the U.S., European nations, and the UN.

Earlier this month, the United States relaxed certain restrictions on Syria’s interim government, particularly regarding energy sales, for six months. Additionally, the European Union is slated to review the potential easing of sanctions, which would be contingent on progress in Syria’s political transition.

McCain cautioned that the ongoing donor reticence to address the needs of millions experiencing poverty and food insecurity in Syria could lead to severe repercussions during this crucial moment. “Food security translates to national security, regardless of where one is. Hunger does not inspire goodwill,” McCain emphasized. “It’s essential to ensure that families have access to food so that their children can not only eat but also pursue education and enjoy the opportunities necessary for a thriving society.”