[Today’s Prayer] Syria Faces Severe Famine Amid Worst Drought in 36 Years; Wheat Production Down 40%

Syria has experienced its worst drought in 36 years, causing wheat production to drop by 40%, and the government may face a food crisis due to lack of funds, Reuters reported on the 18th (local time).

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) explained in a written response to Reuters that about 3 million Syrians could face severe hunger, though no specific timeframe was mentioned.

WFP added that more than half of Syria’s population of approximately 25.6 million currently faces food insecurity.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimated in a June report that Syria would have a wheat shortage of 2.73 million tons this year—enough to feed 16 million people.

According to FAO data, Syria’s annual wheat consumption is roughly 4 million tons, but this year domestic production is expected to reach only 1.2 million tons, a 40% decrease from last year.

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FAO reports that much of Syria’s farmland has been destroyed, and only 40% of arable land has been cultivated this year. Destruction has been particularly severe in major food-producing regions such as Hasakah, Aleppo, and Homs.

Government sources report that the government is purchasing wheat from local farmers at around $450 per ton (about 625,000 KRW), which is approximately $200 (278,000 KRW) above market price.

This famine and food shortage are placing a heavy burden on President Ahmed Al-Shara’s new government, which assumed power after ousting long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad in December last year and ending 14 years of civil war.

Wheat is Syria’s staple food, and the government-subsidized bread distribution program relies on wheat. The current Al-Shara government has been unable to make the large-scale grain purchases that international support would allow.

Russia, the world’s largest wheat exporter and former supporter of the Assad regime, had continuously supplied wheat to Syria but has largely suspended shipments since Assad’s fall last December due to delayed payments and uncertainty under the new government.

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Source: Yonhap News

“For the Lord took delight in making you His people, and He will not abandon His people, but will instruct you in the good and right way.” (1 Samuel 12:22-23)

Lord, we hear the news of Syria suffering the worst drought in 36 years, resulting in a massive crop failure and a looming food crisis as the government lacks sufficient funds. Over half of the population struggles to secure enough food—Lord, extend Your hand of help to Syria.

As Syria endures famine following the pains of civil war, transitional government challenges, and sectarian conflict, feed and clothe Your people, and let Syria once again reflect Your glory and the identity of Your chosen people.

For this, may the gospel spread across Syria so that the good news of salvation fills the land. May the global church plant the seeds of life and continue to pray without ceasing, leading Syria in the good and righteous path.

May the Syrian church trust in God who provided manna and quail in the wilderness, faithfully serving the nation and showing the love of Jesus in action even in difficult circumstances.

As Syria rises to seek first God’s Kingdom and righteousness, may You protect, sustain, and faithfully guide them in spirit and body.

Raise up Syria to experience the power of the gospel, filling all nations with the fame and message of Jesus!