The Iraqi government has announced plans to drastically cut the food-ration system by June 2008. As soon as this summer, only the most impoverished families will be able to receive rations. It is estimated that over 5 million Iraqis will be denied assistance.

The 18-year-old program was set up by Saddam Hussein to counteract inhumane sanctions imposed by the United States and United Nations for 12 years after the 1990-1991 Gulf War.

Before the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, the rationing system provided all Iraqis, regardless of their economic means, much needed resources such as baby formula, soap, milk and flour.

The world food shortage crisis is increasing at alarming rates and leading to rising prices, partly due to displacement of food crops for greater production of biofuels. In the meantime, U.S. imperialism continues to plunder the Middle East for oil and profits.