Guterres Urges Reopening of Strait of Hormuz, Warns of "Global Food Emergency"
UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday urged the "immediate" reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the interruption of maritime traffic in this strategic passage "threatens to unleash an energy crisis, serious trade disruptions, and a possible global food emergency."
TL;DR
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres urges the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
- The closure of the strait threatens an energy crisis, trade disruptions, and a potential global food emergency.
- Approximately one-fifth of the world's oil trade, liquefied natural gas, and nearly one-third of internationally traded fertilizers pass through this route.
- The disruption has led to significant volatility in energy and commodity markets, increased transport and insurance costs, and is the largest supply chain disruption since the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
- Delays and increased transport costs are hindering vital aid deliveries to vulnerable populations.
- Over 20,000 sailors are stranded at sea, and more than 2,000 commercial vessels are trapped.
- The International Maritime Organization (IMO) emphasizes that the principle of freedom of navigation is non-negotiable.
- Iran has maintained strict control over the maritime passage since February 28, causing oil prices to surge.
- Washington has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports since April 13.