Rome: The Holy See has warned that ongoing conflicts and crises in the Middle East and Africa are worsening hunger and poverty, and has called for urgent global action to protect vulnerable people and stabilise food systems.
Speaking at the 38th session of the Regional Conference for the Middle East, Archbishop Fernando Chica Arellano said that war, climate shocks and economic instability are putting severe pressure on agro food systems. He noted that rising energy and fertiliser costs, along with uncertain supply chains, are increasing production expenses and driving food price volatility, especially in countries that depend heavily on imports.
He warned that the escalation of conflict in the Middle East could have far reaching consequences beyond the region, worsening hunger worldwide and affecting the most vulnerable communities. He called for a coordinated political response at multiple levels to manage the crisis, protect populations and build long term resilience.
The Archbishop stressed the importance of immediate steps to stabilise supply chains and prevent local disruptions from turning into wider economic and humanitarian crises. At the same time, he highlighted the need for long term strategies that support sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and structural reforms to safeguard global food and energy security.
Recalling the appeals of Pope Leo XIV, he said peace is essential to overcome divisions and open paths towards dialogue and human dignity. He emphasised that innocent people continue to suffer the consequences of conflicts they did not create.
He added that the Holy See is closely following conflicts around the world and reaffirmed that war and violence remain a scandal to humanity. Promoting peace, he said, must be at the centre of diplomatic efforts so that fighting can stop and space can be created for dialogue where people’s voices are heard.
Archbishop Chica Arellano expressed hope that negotiated solutions to conflicts will be reached soon. He said the conference could help strengthen international cooperation on food security and peace, which are key to achieving sustainable development and ending hunger worldwide.