Iraq's social protection agency starts food parcel preparations for 7 million beneficiaries

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Social Protection Authority under the Ministry of Labour said preparations for food parcels covering roughly 7 million social assistance beneficiaries began on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The agency said beneficiary records had been reviewed and cross-checked, and the finalized lists were forwarded to the Ministry of Trade to handle distribution. Authority head Dr. Ahmed al-Mousawi said the parcels were being prepared to support food security for the most vulnerable groups and to improve living conditions for families receiving social protection assistance. He added that the process was being carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Trade. Officials said work was continuing with relevant institutions to ensure that services and entitlements reach beneficiaries effectively. No further operational details or distribution timelines were immediately provided. Iraq's social protection system provides cash transfers and in-kind assistance to a large share of the population, with the Ministry of Trade typically responsible for distributing subsidized food items through approved outlets.