Astana, 30 March 2026 – The Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS) expresses its deep concern regarding the evolving situation in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf region, and its implications for regional and global food security.
According to reports from World Food Programme (WFP) and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) issued earlier this month, the current situation is already affecting key transport and supply routes that are essential for the movement of food commodities, agricultural inputs, and humanitarian assistance. Disruptions to logistics corridors, maritime trade routes, and input supply chains, including fuel, fertilizers, and animal feed, may lead to increased food price volatility, delays in food shipments, and constraints in access to essential food supplies, particularly for countries that are highly dependent on food imports.
The Organisation is especially concerned about the humanitarian consequences in conflict-affected areas, where vulnerable populations already face significant challenges in accessing adequate food, water, and essential services. In such circumstances, maintaining the continuity of humanitarian food assistance and ensuring the functioning of food supply systems is essential to prevent further deterioration in food security conditions.
IOFS underscores the importance of ensuring the uninterrupted flow of food supplies and agricultural inputs, as well as maintaining the resilience of food systems in the region. Stability in food supply chains is essential not only for the Middle East, but also for other regions that may be indirectly affected by disruptions in global trade and logistics.
In this context, IOFS emphasizes the importance of strengthened international cooperation and collective efforts to ensure the continuity of food supply chains, safeguard the flow of food commodities and agricultural inputs, and support timely humanitarian response efforts in affected areas. As a technical and coordinating body on food security, IOFS reaffirms its readiness to work closely with its Member States and international partners to monitor developments, facilitate coordinated responses, and strengthen resilience to emerging food security risks. The Organization remains committed to supporting collective efforts to ensure that food systems remain functional, stable, and accessible, and that no population is left behind in times of crisis.
