The World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a EUR 3.08 million contribution from the European Union (EU) to support vulnerable refugees and conflict-affected people in Iran. Announced in Tehran on 26 July 2026, the funding will sustain life-saving assistance over a 12-month period, according to a press release by WFP. The contribution will help WFP maintain food security support for populations facing mounting economic pressures and humanitarian needs. It is intended to help families meet essential needs and protect their well-being. The funding reinforces a longstanding partnership between the EU and WFP in Iran.
Iran hosts one of the largest refugee populations in the world, the majority of whom are from Afghanistan. With support from the European Union and other partners, WFP provides food assistance to over 35,000 of the most vulnerable refugees across 20 settlements. This assistance includes cash-based transfers, school feeding programmes, and livelihood support. The EU has been a longstanding partner of WFP, playing a vital role in enabling the organization to sustain operations in the country. Its contributions help WFP respond to evolving humanitarian needs.
The new contribution will also extend WFP’s assistance to conflict-affected Iranians. It aims to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those most in need in a timely, principled, and needs-based manner. Through the partnership with the EU, WFP delivers monthly cash assistance to vulnerable households. This allows families to purchase food from local markets based on their needs and preferences. The approach also supports local economic activity.
“Many vulnerable families in Iran are facing growing economic pressures that threaten their ability to put food on the table,” said Mayssa Alghribawy, WFP Representative in Iran.
She added that, thanks to the support of the European Union, WFP can continue providing critical assistance that not only meets immediate needs but also helps strengthen resilience over time. The statement underscores the dual focus on emergency relief and longer-term resilience. It also highlights the role of EU financing in sustaining WFP’s presence in Iran. The remarks reflect ongoing humanitarian priorities in the country.
With this contribution, WFP plans to reach 52,000 people, including 17,000 Iranians and 35,000 refugees. The assistance will ensure continued access to food support for vulnerable communities across the country. The partnership between WFP and the EU remains central to sustaining humanitarian operations in Iran. It also enables WFP to respond flexibly as needs evolve. The contribution reaffirms the EU’s role as a key partner in WFP’s mission in the region.