The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) warned on Thursday of the potential addition of approximately 5 million people to the food insecurity circle in medium and low-income Arab countries as a result of the US-Israeli war on Iran and the rise in global food prices.
In a study titled "Conflict and Its Consequences: Escalating Impacts and Risks on Energy, Water, and Food Systems in the Arab Region," ESCWA explained that the escalating conflict is causing interconnected shocks in vital sectors, threatening human security and economic stability.
Details of the Event
The UN committee noted that food prices rising by up to 20% could exacerbate living conditions in fragile and conflict-affected countries, especially given the limited financial resources and their heavy reliance on food imports. ESCWA also confirmed that the deteriorating economic conditions threaten to deepen poverty and increase hunger rates in the region.
In the energy sector, ESCWA reported significant disruptions in trade, with crude oil exports from Gulf countries dropping by between 75% and 90% since the outbreak of the war, coinciding with oil prices rising to over $112 per barrel due to the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the main route for about 20% of global oil trade.
Context and Background
These warnings come at a time when the Arab region is suffering from multiple crises, with increasing armed conflicts and political crises negatively impacting local economies. Previous studies by ESCWA have shown that losses in Arab economic output were estimated at around $150 billion in just one month due to these disturbances.
These figures are indicative of the extent to which regional conflicts affect economic and social conditions in Arab countries, where humanitarian crises are worsening amid declining international support and increasing humanitarian needs.
Impact and Consequences
Murad Wahba, the acting Executive Secretary of ESCWA, warned that "these figures call for urgent and coordinated cooperation to protect essential supply chains," urging the adoption of early warning systems, strengthening strategic reserves, diversifying trade routes, and investing in resilient systems for energy, water, and food.
Rising fuel prices, disrupted shipping routes, and increased fertilizer costs are expected to lead to further increases in food prices and production costs, disproportionately affecting low-income households and vulnerable groups.
Impact on the Arab Region
Concerns are growing that a lack of swift intervention could deepen poverty and trigger social unrest, undermining progress towards sustainable development. Under these circumstances, it becomes essential for Arab countries to adopt effective strategies to address the escalating crises.
In conclusion, these warnings highlight the importance of regional and international cooperation to address the economic and social challenges facing the region, emphasizing the need for urgent action to protect food and economic security in Arab countries.