UN Women has warned that an additional 11.7 million women and girls across 28 countries could face food insecurity by the end of 2026, as escalating conflict in the Middle East, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, rising food prices and deteriorating livelihoods deepen food-related risks.

Under a “medium scenario,” the agency estimates that about 22 million additional people could experience food insecurity, with women and girls accounting for roughly 53 percent. This would add to an estimated 208 million women and girls already facing food insecurity or malnutrition across the countries included in the analysis.

The risks are expected to be particularly severe in conflict-affected and crisis-hit areas, including South Sudan, Sudan, Haiti, Yemen and Palestine. In Lebanon, the projected increase could affect nearly 4 percent of the country’s female population.

UN Women noted that women frequently bear a disproportionate share of the burden during food crises, often reducing their own food intake or skipping meals to ensure that other family members have enough to eat.

The agency called for coordinated assistance covering food, cash, nutrition, protection and livelihoods, while urging greater access for women to land, credit and financial services. It also emphasized the need for conflict de-escalation, adherence to international law and sustained diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and security.