UN Warns Prolonged Middle East Conflict Could Push Millions Into Hunger

The United Nations has warned that a prolonged conflict in the Middle East could significantly worsen global hunger, with millions more at risk of acute food insecurity.

Speaking in Geneva, Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director of the World Food Programme, said that if the conflict continues through June, an additional 45 million people could be pushed into acute hunger due to rising food prices.

He noted that this would drive global hunger levels to an unprecedented high, describing the situation as a “terrible” prospect. Currently, around 319 million people worldwide are already facing acute food insecurity, marking a historic peak.

The warning highlights growing concerns over the wider economic and humanitarian impact of ongoing regional instability, particularly on food supply chains and affordability.