New Delhi The ongoing war involving Iran is no longer just an energy crisis but is now raising serious concerns about a potential global food shortage as disruptions spread across supply chains and agricultural systems worldwide.

Experts warn that the conflict is affecting key sectors that are critical to food production Rising oil prices and disruptions in shipping routes especially through the Strait of Hormuz are increasing transportation and production costs globally This is making it more expensive to move food and agricultural inputs across countries.

One of the biggest concerns is the impact on fertilizers The conflict has disrupted supplies of essential raw materials and fertilizers which are crucial for growing crops A shortage of these inputs could reduce agricultural output in major farming regions.

As a result global production of staple crops such as rice wheat maize and soybeans could decline Lower yields would tighten food supplies and push prices higher particularly affecting countries that depend heavily on imports.

Developing nations are expected to be the worst hit Many of these countries already face economic challenges and rely on imports for both food and fertilizers Rising prices could lead to food shortages and increase the risk of hunger and social unrest.

International organisations have also sounded alarms over the growing crisis The World Food Programme has warned that millions more people could face acute hunger if the conflict continues as food and fuel costs surge and supply chains remain disrupted the crisis highlights how interconnected global systems are with a regional conflict quickly affecting food security worldwide Analysts say that unless the conflict de escalates soon the world could face another major food shock similar to past global crises For now the situation remains uncertain but the risk of a widespread food crisis continues to grow as the war shows no signs of ending .