UNHCR warns of Funding Crunch as Thousands Flee Falluja

“Two and sometimes three families are having to share tents in many cases while others sleep in the open, without hygiene facilities. Rising temperatures, the absence of shade and insufficient clean drinking water are compounding an already desperate situation,” she said.

These escalating needs have pushed UNHCR funding into crisis levels. Almost half way through the year, the Refugee Agency has received only 21 per cent of funds needed for Iraq and the surrounding region – one of the world's biggest internal displacement and refugee situations.

Only USD 127.7 million has been received against the projected needs of US$584 million in 2016, and UNHCR is exhausting available resources in Iraq to deal with the rapid developments in Falluja.

Six camps have already been established in Amiriyat and Falluja. Three more are being built in Khalidya and Habbaniya Tourist City while two others are being expanded. UNHCR expect sthat 20 more will be needed over the coming weeks to house 30,000 people. Funds are also urgently needed for blankets, mattresses and jerry cans as well as other support.