This article was originally published in Semafor on April 13, 2026. It is republished here with permission.
Food is the world’s most vital energy source, far more crucial than oil or gas. While people discuss oil prices, they often overlook how global conflicts impact food availability. Recent tensions in Iran have significantly affected food markets, leading to higher costs for essential supplies like fertilizer and transport.
In rich nations, grocery prices are climbing, but in war-torn regions, this leads to severe hunger. In Gaza alone, two million people depend on international aid to survive. Although the most intense fighting between Hamas and Israel may have subsided, many still live in fragile conditions without access to basic necessities.
World Central Kitchen (WCK) has been a lifeline, serving over 313 million meals in Gaza in just two and a half years. At times, they serve a million meals daily—about half of Gaza’s population. This program is unique because it prioritizes locals, employing thousands and investing over $500 million into the economy.
Despite this success, WCK faces challenges. The ongoing conflict in Iran has led to a 30% rise in rice prices and 10-20% increases in meats. Additionally, higher gas prices complicate delivery and logistics. As costs rise, the organization is cutting back on meal distributions.
José Andrés, the founder, emphasizes that while their operations are effective, they cannot continue without broader support from the global community. The aid system now requires urgent assistance, not just from small private donors but from larger funding sources that can act swiftly.
The consequences of neglecting Gaza have ripple effects. Following recent conflicts in Lebanon, more than a million people there need immediate support too. People’s hunger is an urgent issue that we can address immediately, even if we cannot resolve the ongoing conflicts overnight.
Historically, the value of humanitarian aid in crises has been underscored by the global community. The 2010 Haitian earthquake saw similar challenges, where organizations struggled to meet overwhelming needs. With ongoing conflicts today, the lessons remain relevant: food security is essential for stability.
Public sentiment on platforms like Twitter reflects this urgency, with users calling for global attention to humanitarian crises. A recent survey indicated that over 70% of people believe governments should prioritize humanitarian aid during times of conflict.
In conclusion, the need for immediate action is clear. We must not ignore the hunger crisis in Gaza and beyond. Every effort counts in this fight against hunger.
José Andrés, WCK Founder
To learn more about the ongoing humanitarian needs in Gaza, visit World Central Kitchen.
