Global financial and humanitarian institutions have warned that the ongoing war in the Middle East is already pushing up food prices and could deepen hunger in vulnerable countries if the disruption continues.
In a joint statement issued on April 8, 2026, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank Group and the World Food Programme said the conflict is destabilising global energy markets while adding pressure on food systems worldwide.
“The Middle East war is upending lives and livelihoods in the region and beyond,” the three institutions said. “It has already triggered one of the largest disruptions to global energy markets in modern history.”
They noted that rising costs of oil, gas and fertiliser, together with delays in transport, are among the main risks affecting global supply chains.
“Sharp increases in oil, gas, and fertilizer prices, together with transport bottlenecks, will inevitably lead to rising food prices and food insecurity,” the institutions said.
Early signs of strain are already being reported in several countries. The World Food Programme has previously warned that higher fuel and food costs linked to the conflict could push millions closer to hunger, especially in fragile economies.
Countries that depend heavily on imports are expected to face the greatest pressure. Many of these nations rely on international markets for basic food supplies and fuel, leaving them exposed to sudden price changes.
“The burden will fall most heavily on the world’s most vulnerable populations,” the statement said, pointing to concerns over countries already dealing with high debt levels and limited public spending capacity.
Governments in such economies may find it difficult to respond effectively. Rising fuel prices tend to push up transport and food costs, while existing debt reduces the ability to provide subsidies or emergency relief.
The conflict has also affected global supply chains beyond the region. The World Food Programme said shipping routes and key transport corridors are experiencing pressure, slowing the movement of goods such as fertiliser.
A significant share of global fertiliser supply moves through the Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption in this route could limit availability, reduce agricultural output and further drive up food prices globally.
At the same time, oil prices have increased since the escalation of the conflict. This has raised transport and production costs, contributing to inflation pressures across many economies.
On the ground, the effects are already visible. In Lebanon, rising displacement has increased demand for food assistance in communities already facing shortages. In Gaza, early border closures led to sharp increases in food prices, and although some crossings have reopened, costs remain high.
In Iran, existing economic difficulties have worsened conditions. High inflation and a weakening currency had already reduced household purchasing power before the latest escalation.
Humanitarian operations are also under strain. The World Food Programme said longer shipping routes and congestion are causing delays in aid deliveries, meaning vulnerable communities may have to wait longer for assistance.
To manage these challenges, the agency is adjusting supply routes and using alternative corridors through countries such as Türkiye, Egypt and Jordan. It is also relying more on overland transport where possible to keep supplies moving.
Despite these efforts, costs continue to rise. Higher fuel prices and logistical constraints are making it more expensive to deliver humanitarian aid, adding pressure on already stretched resources.
The three institutions said they will continue working together to monitor developments and respond where possible.
“Our institutions will continue to monitor developments closely and coordinate the use of all available tools to support those impacted by the crisis,” they said.
They also pledged to act within their mandates to protect lives and support recovery efforts.
“We will provide support to safeguard lives and livelihoods, and to lay the foundations for a resilient recovery that delivers stability, growth and jobs,” the statement added.
While a full global food crisis has not yet emerged, officials caution that the risk is rising. The duration of the conflict and the stability of key supply routes will play a major role in determining the extent of the impact. For now, global institutions warn that prolonged disruption will hit the world’s poorest the hardest.