The Iran war could trigger a global food crisis By Bram Govaerts and Sharon Burke FEATURE View(s): View(s):MEXICO CITY/ WASHINGTON, DC – Since the start of the US-Israeli campaign against Iran, only a handful of the 100 vessels that once transited the Strait of Hormuz each day have managed to pass through. The Strait of Hormuz, after all, is not just a shipping lane for oil tankers; it is a critical artery of the global food system. Over the past few years, many Gulf countries have taken steps to strengthen their food systems, expanding strategic reserves and investing in domestic production. While disruptions to food, fuel, and fertiliser shipments could drive up prices within weeks or months, another resource could be at risk within days: water. At the same time, this episode should serve as a warning: the global food system is dangerously vulnerable.

Source: Sunday Times March 22, 2026 01:41 UTC