The US-Israel war on Iran is exacerbating global hunger, according to the UN World Food Programme (WFP). This conflict, coupled with other global disasters, has pushed record numbers of people into hunger, even as funding to combat famine has plummeted. The WFP estimates that 363 million people worldwide are now at risk of acute hunger, with 45 million of them affected by the Middle East conflict and oil price spike. The situation is dire, with funding cuts forcing the WFP to prioritize those already facing catastrophic famine, leading to a grim reality where the hungry are being taken from to give to the starving.
The war and the Strait of Hormuz closure have had multiple effects on global hunger. Firstly, they drive up food prices, primarily due to increased transport costs. This correlation between energy and food prices is particularly devastating for the most vulnerable populations, who already spend a significant portion of their income on food. As a result, these individuals are forced to eat 30-40% less, leading to severe malnutrition.
The conflict has also disrupted aid routes, making it more challenging for the WFP to reach those in desperate need. Border tensions and closures have forced the organization to resort to lengthy and costly land routes, causing significant delays in delivering food aid. For instance, 85,000 tons of food aid intended for Afghanistan was delayed for months due to border closures and rerouting.
The war's impact extends beyond immediate hunger crises. It is disrupting the supply chain for a significant portion of the world's seaborne fertilizer, particularly in East Africa. With all their fertilizer coming from the Middle East, East African countries lack the resources to purchase it elsewhere. This disruption will have long-term consequences on agricultural productivity, affecting food production six to nine months from now.
The US-Israel war on Iran is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a challenge to international norms and the rule of law. The WFP's operations are becoming increasingly dangerous due to the corrosion of these norms. Iranian-backed Houthi forces have detained WFP workers on unsubstantiated espionage allegations, leading to the suspension of operations in Houthi-controlled areas. This environment of uncertainty and danger poses a significant threat to the organization's ability to provide aid effectively.
In conclusion, the US-Israel war on Iran is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. It exacerbates global hunger, disrupts aid efforts, and challenges international norms. The WFP's acting executive director, Carl Skau, emphasizes the urgent need for funding and a resolution to the conflict to prevent further suffering and ensure the survival of millions of people affected by this crisis.
