Global Hunger Crisis Intensifies Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict

The protracted Iran conflict, intensifying since February, threatens to plunge millions more into acute hunger. With vital aid routes disrupted, escalating costs in food, oil, and shipping exacerbate the crisis. The World Food Programme warns of global hunger reaching unprecedented levels, as funding priorities shift towards defense.

The ongoing conflict involving the U.S.-Israeli forces against Iran has dire consequences for global hunger, the World Food Programme warned on Tuesday. Since February 26, crucial humanitarian aid routes have been disrupted, delaying vital shipments to crisis-hit regions.

The World Food Programme estimates an additional 45 million people could face acute hunger due to increased costs of food, oil, and shipping. This surge may push the global hunger count beyond the current record of 319 million, according to Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau.

"The prospect of global hunger reaching an all-time high is alarming," Skau said, adding that WFP's shipping costs have risen by 18% since the conflict began. Additionally, financial cuts by the WFP compound the pressure, as international funding diverts towards defense expenditures.

(With inputs from agencies.)