UN Warns of Growing Global Food Crisis

The war in the Middle East is increasing the risk of hunger for millions of people worldwide, according to the UN World Food Programme (WFP). The agency says higher energy costs, more expensive transportation, and funding shortfalls for humanitarian organizations are making it harder to deliver food to the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Since the US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February, the conflict has spread across the region, disrupting key trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping restrictions and rising oil prices have strained global supply chains, driving up the cost of food imports and humanitarian aid.

The WFP warned earlier this year that oil prices around $100 per barrel could push up to 45 million people into acute food insecurity. According to the agency, that scenario is now beginning to unfold.

Countries heavily dependent on imported energy and food are expected to face the greatest challenges. In Somalia, around 6.5 million people – roughly one-third of the population – could experience severe hunger over the next year. In Afghanistan, 17.4 million people are considered at risk.

The situation is being compounded by a lack of funding for humanitarian operations. The WFP estimates it will reach 1.5 million fewer people in 2026 than originally planned. If the crisis continues for another six months, an additional 9 million people could lose access to aid.

(reuters, max)