UN humanitarian officialssay the security situation in Somalia deteriorated dramatically over the pastweek. They say civilians, humanitarian workers and civil society groups have beentargeted in various parts of the country. Forexample, 40 civilians, mainly women and children, were reported killed inMogadishu. Most were caught in crossfire or died when mortar shells hit theirhomes. At least 70 civilians were wounded in the city. UN officials also say it's gettingeven more difficult to deliver humanitarian aid. Nevertheless, the world foodprogram says it has increased food assistance to the displaced along thecorridor between Mogadishu and Afgooye. The number of people receiving food aidin that area is now 326,000, up from 200,000 in May. The WFP is planning tosend a food ship from Durban by the middle of this month, but so far there isno naval escort available to protect it from pirates.
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