UN Warns of Worsening Hunger in 13 Global Hotspots

The United Nations has issued a stark warning about intensifying extreme hunger in 13 global hotspots, with Sudan, Palestine (Gaza), South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali facing immediate risk of famine without urgent humanitarian intervention. The joint "Hunger Hotspots" report by the FAO and WFP attributes the crisis to conflict, economic shocks, climate-related hazards, and access constraints compounded by funding shortfalls. In Gaza, ongoing military operations and blockades have left all 2.1 million residents food insecure, with nearly 500,000 at risk of famine by September, while Sudan's conflict threatens almost 25 million people. South Sudan faces a deadly combination of flooding and political instability, risking famine-like conditions for tens of thousands, and gang violence in Haiti has displaced thousands, pushing many toward starvation. The report calls for immediate investment and aid delivery to save lives and protect local agriculture, emphasizing that without funding and safe access, humanitarian efforts cannot succeed. Other countries of concern include Yemen, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, and Nigeria, highlighting a widespread global food security emergency.