Speaking at a UN Security Council discussion on conflict and hunger, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said at least 266 million people faced severe food insecurity over the last year, as the world recorded the highest number of armed conflicts since World War II.
For the first time this century, famine has been recorded simultaneously in Sudan and the Gaza Strip. Conflict and violence are the main causes of hunger in 12 of the 13 most concerning food-security hotspots monitored by the UN. Essential food systems, including farms, water supplies, markets, storage facilities, ports and transport routes are being attacked or severely disrupted.
Mr. Guterres called on the Security Council to act as soon as warning signs emerge, rather than waiting until famine is declared. He once again stressed that the international community needs to protect food infrastructure and step up assistance to prevent humanitarian disasters.
