UN warns of acute food insecurity in Haiti; broad humanitarian shortfalls in South Sudan, Gaza and Afghanistan
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Summary
UN spokesperson Steph reported WFP and IPC that about 5.8 million Haitians face crisis or worse food insecurity and that multiple UN appeals (including a $1.46 billion plan for South Sudan) are underfunded; the briefing also covered Gaza, Afghanistan and displacement updates.
The United Nations spokesperson, Steph, told reporters that multiple humanitarian crises remain underfunded and that large populations continue to need urgent assistance.
Haiti: Steph cited an updated IPC analysis saying about 5.8 million Haitians — roughly 52% of the population — face crisis or worse food insecurity, and that more than 1.8 million are experiencing emergency levels of food insecurity for March–June. She said the World Food Programme helped 2.7 million people last year but needs about $332 million to maintain operations over the next 12 months. Steph added that the broader $880 million humanitarian response plan for Haiti is about 20% funded.
South Sudan and regional appeal: On South Sudan, Steph said Anita Kiki Gebbo briefed the Security Council and Tom Fletcher (joining by video from Berlin) warned that two‑thirds of the population will need humanitarian support this year, including more than 7.5 million people who will need food assistance. Steph said the 2026 humanitarian appeal of about $1.46 billion is only roughly 22% funded.
Gaza, displacement and protection concerns: Steph relayed OCHA reporting that attacks continue across the Gaza Strip, that "there is no guaranteed safety for civilians anywhere in Gaza," and that attacks across all five governorates have caused casualties and infrastructure damage. She also noted that joint UN mechanisms and partners delivered tents, tarpaulins and other relief items to hundreds of households.
Afghanistan: Steph said cross‑border hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan have raised needs, with damage to homes, health facilities and schools; she noted explosive hazards remain a threat and cited reported civilian casualties.
Why it matters: The figures show multiple underfunded appeals and urgent needs across several crises; limited funding constrains aid delivery and raises protection risks for displaced people and civilians.
Steph highlighted specific displacement events in Haiti, saying IOM reported about 1,300 people were displaced on 13 April in Marigot and are sheltering with host families, and that this displacement is notable for its scale and direct link to armed attacks.
The spokesperson emphasized continued coordination with local and national authorities and urged more funding and humanitarian access to reach people in need.
