Iran War Could Push 45 Million More People Into Hunger Crisis — WFP Warns
The ongoing war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States could trigger a dramatic surge in global hunger, with up to 45 million additional people at risk of falling into acute food insecurity by June, according to the World Food Programme.
The warning, issued during a briefing in Geneva, highlights how the conflict is rapidly evolving into a humanitarian crisis far beyond the battlefield.
Global Hunger at Risk of Reaching Record Levels
Senior officials at the World Food Programme say the war’s ripple effects on energy prices, shipping routes, and food supply chains could push global hunger figures to unprecedented levels.
According to the agency’s latest projections, the number of people facing acute hunger worldwide could rise from an already record 319 million to well over 360 million if the conflict continues in its current trajectory.
Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau described the situation as a worsening global emergency.
He warned that the world is already experiencing one of the most severe hunger crises in modern history — and the war risks pushing it to even more dangerous levels.
Aid Routes Disrupted by Conflict
One of the most immediate impacts of the war has been the disruption of critical humanitarian supply routes.
The conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, has affected key transport corridors used to deliver food and medical supplies to vulnerable populations.
According to the WFP, some of the world’s most fragile regions are now experiencing delays in life-saving aid shipments due to logistical challenges.
Shipping routes have been altered or suspended in some areas due to security risks, while insurance costs for cargo vessels have increased.
These disruptions are particularly concerning for countries already dealing with food shortages, conflict, or economic instability.
Rising Costs Driving Food Insecurity
The war has also triggered sharp increases in global costs tied to food production and distribution.
The World Food Programme reported that its shipping expenses have risen by approximately 18 percent since the conflict began.
This increase is largely driven by higher fuel prices, rerouted shipping lanes, and heightened security risks in strategic maritime zones.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key corridor for global energy supplies, has become a focal point of concern for markets and logistics operators.
Any disruption in this region can significantly impact oil prices, which in turn affects transportation and food costs worldwide.
A “Perfect Storm” for Global Hunger
WFP officials say the war is compounding an already fragile global situation.
Before the conflict began, millions of people were already facing severe food insecurity due to:
Climate-related disasters
Economic instability
Ongoing regional conflicts
Supply chain disruptions
Carl Skau described the situation as a “perfect storm,” where multiple crises are converging at once.
He noted that hunger levels are not only increasing in terms of numbers but also in severity, with more people experiencing extreme deprivation.
Budget Constraints Worsen Crisis
Adding to the challenge is a growing funding gap for humanitarian operations.
The World Food Programme has been forced to scale back some of its operations due to reduced funding from donor countries.
Officials say that global geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing war, are shifting government spending priorities toward defence and security.
This trend is leaving fewer resources available for humanitarian assistance programs.
As a result, aid agencies are struggling to meet rising demand at a time when more people than ever need support.
Vulnerable Regions at Greatest Risk
Experts warn that the impact of the war will be felt most severely in regions already facing food crises.
Countries in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia that rely heavily on imported food and fuel are particularly vulnerable.
Rising global prices could make essential goods unaffordable for millions of households.
Additionally, disruptions in agricultural supply chains may reduce food availability in both local and international markets.
Economic Ripple Effects
Beyond immediate humanitarian concerns, the war is also affecting the global economy.
Higher oil prices, increased shipping costs, and supply chain disruptions are contributing to inflation worldwide.
For developing countries, these pressures can quickly translate into food shortages and economic instability.
Analysts say the longer the conflict continues, the greater the risk of widespread economic fallout.
Calls for Urgent Action
The World Food Programme is calling on the international community to take urgent steps to prevent the crisis from escalating further.
These measures include:
Securing humanitarian corridors for aid delivery
Increasing funding for food assistance programs
Stabilizing global supply chains
Supporting vulnerable populations through targeted interventions
Without immediate action, officials warn that millions more people could be pushed into hunger within a matter of months.
A Growing Global Crisis
The warning from the WFP underscores how the war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States is evolving into a crisis with global consequences.
While the conflict remains centered in the Middle East, its economic and humanitarian effects are being felt far beyond the region.
As food insecurity rises and aid systems come under increasing strain, the coming months may prove critical in determining whether the world can prevent a deepening hunger emergency.