WFP Warns Iran Conflict Could Increase Global Acute Hunger by 45 Million

The World Food Programme (WFP) warns that if the conflict involving Iran continues through June, an additional 45 million people could face acute hunger, raising the global total above the current record of 319 million. Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau cited rising food, oil, and shipping costs—exacerbated by U.S.-Israeli attacks disrupting aid routes—as key factors. Increased shipping expenses and reduced WFP funding due to donor shifts toward defense further strain humanitarian efforts.