America News Agency

Fletcher stated that tensions in the Middle East not only increase humanitarian needs but also reduce global attention and funding for other crises.

Highlighting crises in Africa, Fletcher said: “The Central Sahel is at the frontline of crises driven by violence, climate shocks and epidemics. More than 12 million people need support. The Central African Republic is one of the most neglected humanitarian crises in the world. 2.3 million people need assistance. Aid operations are stalling. One in three people faces acute hunger.”

Fletcher emphasized that conflicts in northeastern Nigeria are deepening the crisis: “5.9 million people need support. 1 million children are at risk of severe malnutrition. Violence is hindering aid and causing loss of life.”

Referring to the situation in Cameroon and Chad, Fletcher said: “The crisis in Cameroon is growing in plain sight. In the Far North, around 1.16 million people face severe hunger. Nationwide, 2.9 million people need humanitarian assistance. In Chad, hundreds of thousands of people fleeing the war in Sudan are being hosted. However, aid cuts are leading to school closures and straining the health system. 4.5 million people need support.”

Fletcher also drew attention to the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: “Widespread sexual violence against civilians is occurring, and humanitarian workers are being targeted.”

Regarding the Palestinian territories, Fletcher said: “Palestinians are being attacked and forcibly displaced due to systematic settler violence. As settlements expand, properties are being destroyed. International law requires their protection as they live under occupation. We will continue our efforts to protect civilians, increase funding and strengthen humanitarian impact.”