The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran is significantly impacting global food security, with millions at risk of hunger. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has highlighted that the war is causing substantial increases in food prices, particularly in fragile countries like Afghanistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka. As oil prices remain high due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, the effects are being felt acutely in these regions, where households are struggling to afford basic necessities.
In Afghanistan, an estimated 17.4 million people could face food insecurity, exacerbated by rising fuel costs and disrupted trade. The situation in Somalia is equally dire, with projections indicating that 6.5 million people may experience severe hunger by 2026. The WFP warns that if the conflict persists, the number of people unable to afford essential food items could rise dramatically, affecting nearly 60% of households in Somalia alone.
The ripple effects of this conflict extend beyond immediate hunger concerns. The WFP anticipates that operational costs will rise, leading to a reduction in humanitarian assistance. If the war continues for six months, over 9 million people could lose vital support, compounding the crisis in already vulnerable regions.
As the conflict drags on with no resolution in sight, the implications for food security are profound. The interconnectedness of global markets means that the impacts of this war will likely be felt far beyond the immediate conflict zones, affecting food prices and availability worldwide.
Source: Al Jazeera
