SNAP Cuts Could Kill 70,000 Americans as Iran War Threatens 45 Million More Worldwide

SNAP cuts projected to cause 70,000 avoidable deaths by 2040 as Iran war threatens to push 45 million more people into acute hunger worldwide.

SNAP Cuts Could Kill 70,000 Americans as Iran War Threatens 45 Million More Worldwide SNAP cuts projected to cause 70,000 avoidable deaths by 2040 as Iran war threatens to push 45 million more people into acute hunger worldwide. Aaron Rafferty March 22, 2026 Key Takeaways: The Center for American Progress projects 70,000 avoidable deaths by 2040 from SNAP work requirement expansions that will cut 2.4 million people per month from food assistance. The World Food Programme warns that 45 million additional people could fall into acute hunger if the Iran conflict continues through June, adding to the 318 million already food insecure globally. US farmers face spring planting without adequate fertilizer as 30% of global supply transits the Strait of Hormuz, now at a virtual standstill with Iran charging $2 million per ship. The Center for American Progress published state-level projections on March 19 estimating that expanded SNAP work requirements under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will result in nearly 70,000 avoidable deaths nationally by 2040. The Congressional Budget Office projects a 2.4 million person reduction in average monthly SNAP participation from the new requirements, which now cover veterans, former foster youth, homeless individuals, parents with children over 14, and adults aged 55 to 64. States face a separate crisis starting in October when administrative cost-sharing shifts from 50% to 75%, with a new 15% benefit cost-share beginning in fiscal year 2028. States that cannot absorb those costs may leave SNAP entirely. Pennsylvania alone could see 1,300 premature deaths from work requirement expansions, with far greater losses if the state exits the program. The Global Picture Is Worse The World Food Programme reported on March 17 that 318 million people a