World Food Programme Warns Middle East Tensions Could Worsen Hunger in Afghanistan

The World Food Programme has warned that disruptions in food transport due to Middle East tensions could exacerbate hunger in Afghanistan, where one-third of the population faces food shortages and relies on humanitarian aid, according to UN assessments.

Corinne Fleischer, the organization's supply chain director, stated that about 70,000 tons of food are stuck due to logistical problems and ship rerouting. She added that if the disruptions continue until June, the number of people facing severe food shortages could rise to 45 million worldwide.

To deliver aid to Afghanistan, the World Food Programme has activated alternative land routes from the United Arab Emirates through Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Turkey. These routes have significantly increased transportation and fuel costs.

Insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea has forced ships to take the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope in southern Africa, raising both time and costs. Some food items, including wheat and other essentials, have also faced delays en route through countries like Yemen and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The disruptions come amid heightened military tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli operations against Iran in late February, including threats to close the Strait of Hormuz and reciprocal attacks in the region.

Experts caution that continued disruptions could further limit access to food for vulnerable countries like Afghanistan and worsen the humanitarian crisis.