Experience is knowing a lot of things you shouldn’t do.” William S. Knudsen

Dr. ELZUBI: War is Strangling Arab Food Security

Dr. ELZUBI: War is Strangling Arab Food Security

Protecting Vital Supply Chains:

·        Establish rapid response teams at the sectoral level (food, fuel, medicine).

·        Define international and national contact lines for sensitive supply chains.

·        Strengthen strategic reserves of essential materials (wheat, sugar, fuel, fertilizers).

·        Expand flexible storage and distribution mechanisms in stable areas and improve access.

Early Warning Systems and Continuous Assessment:

·        Develop early monitoring systems for risks linked to conflict, climate change, and market prices.

·        Strengthen cooperation among governments, the private sector, and international organizations for shared response.

Diversifying Trade Routes and Production:

·        Support diversification of food and essential goods suppliers beyond traditional sources.

·        Encourage local production of food and essential materials wherever possible, by supporting farmers.

Enhancing Resilience in Energy, Water, and Food:

·        Invest in multi-source, flexible energy systems.

·        Improve water resource management and provide infrastructure for recycled water.

·        Boost agricultural efficiency and adopt technologies that reduce fertilizer costs and provide eco-friendly alternatives.

Temporary Social Protection Programs:

·        Target the most vulnerable families with dedicated income support.

·        Facilitate household access to essential services (health, education).

 

Actionable Proposals Within 90 Days

·        Prepare a national priority map jointly between governments, donors, and the private sector to protect supply chains within 3 months.

·        Establish an emergency food/oil reserve fund covering 6–12 weeks of essential needs, with transparent emergency management mechanisms.

·        Launch early warning programs in the most vulnerable sectors, including updated data on prices, agricultural risks, and supply.

·        Facilitate import procedures for essential food and fuel through temporary tax exemptions or customs relief to reduce costs and delays.

·        Strengthen regional cooperation on alternative trade routes and ease the movement of vital goods across borders.