Iran27/05/2026
CONFLICT
2+

US-Israel War on Iran Driving Historic Levels of Global Hunger, UN Says

The ongoing conflict between the US and Israel against Iran is exacerbating global hunger, according to a recent UN report, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact of geopolitical tensions.

Key Facts

  • The UN reports that the US-Israel conflict with Iran is significantly contributing to global hunger levels.
  • Funding for humanitarian efforts has dropped nearly 40% year-on-year, impacting food security in conflict zones.
  • The economic fallout from the conflict has led to increased oil prices, further straining global food supply chains.

Impact on Global Hunger

The ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran is having dire consequences for global hunger, as reported by the United Nations. The conflict has been described as a significant driver of food insecurity, with humanitarian organizations struggling to meet the needs of millions affected by war and instability. According to UN officials, the reality is that much of the current hunger crisis is driven by conflict.

In 2025, the World Food Programme (WFP) reported a staggering drop in donor contributions, falling from $9.8 billion in 2024 to $6.5 billion. This reduction has severely impacted their ability to provide aid, particularly in regions like Afghanistan and Yemen, where emergency food funding has been cut off. The consequences are stark, with the WFP forced to let go of thousands of staff and reduce the number of people they can support from 10 million to just 2 million. The UN reports that the US-Israel conflict with Iran is significantly contributing to global hunger levels.

Economic Fallout from the Conflict

The economic repercussions of the US-Israel war on Iran are being felt globally, particularly in the oil markets. Following Israel's military actions against Iran's nuclear facilities, crude oil prices surged by as much as 13%. This spike reflects traders' fears that the conflict could escalate, disrupting oil supplies from the region, which is critical for global energy security.

As oil prices rise, the cost of food and other essentials is also expected to increase, compounding the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Analysts warn that every 10% increase in oil prices could add approximately 0.4% to consumer prices over the following year, further straining household budgets worldwide. This situation underscores the interconnectedness of geopolitical conflicts and global economic stability. The economic fallout from Israel's attack on Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile facilities in the early hours of Friday was swift.

Humanitarian Challenges Amid Conflict

Humanitarian organizations are facing unprecedented challenges as they attempt to navigate the complexities of delivering aid in conflict zones. The ongoing war has not only disrupted supply chains but has also led to a significant reduction in funding, making it increasingly difficult to provide necessary support. The UN has highlighted that the humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the lack of accountability and the dangerous conditions under which aid workers operate.

As the conflict continues, the international community is urged to respond with increased support for humanitarian efforts. Without a concerted effort to address the funding shortfalls and ensure safe passage for aid, the situation is likely to worsen, leading to more severe humanitarian crises in the affected regions. Funding for humanitarian efforts has dropped nearly 40% year-on-year, impacting food security in conflict zones.

US-Israel War on Iran Driving Historic Levels of Global Hunger, UN Says | Heuron