Sir, – Conflict is the single largest driver of food insecurity, forcing millions from their homes and cutting families off from land, markets and basic services. In 2022, the war in Ukraine triggered a global cost-of-living crisis, and food insecurity reached record levels. Without a rapid resolution, the conflict impacting Iran and the Gulf states could have a similar effect, potentially driving another 45 million people into acute food insecurity, and impacting food and fuel prices and the availability of fertilisers globally. Lasting peace is needed to reverse the steady increase in the number of people who are acutely food insecure. Without it, the systems that people depend upon for food will continue to unravel, and zero hunger will remain an aspiration.

Source: The Irish Times March 26, 2026 16:32 UTC