War spending worsens global hunger as 673 million go undernourished

Global hunger remains a pressing crisis, with 673 million people still undernourished. Meanwhile, ongoing conflicts divert vast sums of money that could instead fund food security for millions. Experts warn that war spending deepens inequality and destabilises food systems worldwide. The financial cost of war is staggering. In just six days, the US conflict with Iran consumed $12.7 billion. That same amount could have provided a healthy daily food basket for about 70% of the world's undernourished population.

Rising oil prices, driven by conflict, worsen the situation. Higher fuel costs push up transportation and production expenses, making food less affordable. Import-dependent nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America face the greatest risks, as they rely on global markets for essential supplies.

War also disrupts fertiliser production, further straining food systems. José Graziano da Silva, a leading food security advocate, has criticised the moral failure of prioritising military spending over hunger relief. He argues that every day of conflict deepens food insecurity for the poorest communities. The consequences of war extend far beyond battlefields. Escalating oil and fertiliser prices squeeze household budgets, forcing vulnerable populations to spend more on basic survival. Without intervention, the gap between those who can afford food and those who cannot will continue to widen.