UN food agencies warn acute hunger will worsen in 13 hot spots as famine risks rise

The Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Programme are warning that acute hunger is expected to worsen in 13 global hot spots between June and November 2026, as conflict, economic shocks, climate stress and aid cuts deepen pressure on already fragile populations.

The new joint outlook says about 266 million people are already facing high levels of acute food insecurity. It identifies Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen and Palestine as the countries of greatest concern, while Nigeria and Somalia were newly added to the highest-concern category.

What the report says

The agencies' warning comes as humanitarian systems remain under strain and food assistance is being squeezed by financing gaps. AP reported that funding for food assistance and related programs has fallen by about 59% since 2022.

The report says conflict and violence are the main drivers in nearly all of the hotspots. It also points to economic shocks and expected El Niño effects as additional risks that could limit access to food and disrupt aid delivery.

Where the risk is highest

Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen and Palestine remain the most severe cases in the report's assessment. Nigeria and Somalia have now been moved into the top concern tier as conditions worsened.

AP also noted that Gaza has improved since an October 2025 ceasefire, but the situation remains fragile, with about 1.6 million people still acutely food insecure earlier this year.

Humanitarian stakes

WFP Acting Executive Director Carl Skau said the warnings in the report cannot be ignored and that without action, millions more people could face worsening hunger and famine.

The report underscores how quickly food insecurity can slide into famine when conflict, displacement, economic collapse and reduced aid converge. The agencies are calling for urgent international action to prevent further deterioration in the months ahead.