How the Middle East conflict is worsening Somalia’s slide into famine
Somalia is facing a worsening hunger crisis as disruptions from the Middle East conflict, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, delay vital shipments and drive up food and fuel prices. Combined with poor rains and climate shocks, these global supply chain issues are pushing parts of the country toward famine. Over 6 million people are in acute food insecurity, and aid agencies warn the situation is deteriorating rapidly.
- ▪Six million people in Somalia, about 31% of the population, are experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity.
- ▪Diesel and gas prices have surged by up to 60% in parts of Somalia due to the Middle East conflict, increasing transportation and production costs.
- ▪The price of urea fertilizer has risen by 62.5%, and staple food prices such as milk and cooking oil have increased significantly, worsening affordability for families.
- ▪The International Rescue Committee reported sharp increases in the cost of key fertilizers and food items, including a 21.4% rise in cooking oil and a 42.8% rise in milk prices.
- ▪The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification has identified a risk of famine in Somalia’s Burhakaba district, with acute malnutrition affecting large numbers of children.
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AfricaHow the Middle East conflict is worsening Somalia’s slide into famineSomalia is among the most exposed to ripple effects from the Strait of Hormuz crisis due to the combined shocks of extreme weather, aid cuts and import dependence.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00Residents of the Maacani Camp in Mogadishu, Somalia are struggling to survive in tents under limited conditions as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz cause serious disruptions in the passage of ships on May 5.Abuukar Mohamed Muhidin / Anadolu via Getty ImagesShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 17, 2026, 6:56 AM EDTBy Freddie ClaytonMustafe Denbil runs an agricultural shop and farm in northern Somalia, but three months after ordering fertilizer and pesticides, the supplies his business needs are still…
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