UN warns of global food crisis if Strait of Hormuz closure prolonged
via Le Matin1 min read
The UN Secretary-General has warned that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a global food crisis, pushing millions into hunger and poverty, particularly in Africa and South Asia. He noted that over 20,000 seafarers and 2,000 commercial vessels are currently trapped due to navigation risks and restrictions. The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of respecting international law and strengthening dialogue and cooperation among states, regional organizations, and maritime industry actors. The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization IMO, Arsenio Dominguez, stated that straits used for international navigation should not be closed and that no legal basis exists for a country to impose discriminatory payments or conditions in these passages. He warned that any deviation from these principles would set a harmful precedent and severely compromise the integrity and stability of maritime transport. Dominguez also mentioned that the IMO has developed an evacuation framework for stranded seafarers and ships, ready for immediate implementation. The UN reports that approximately one-fifth of global oil trade, one-fifth of liquefied natural gas, and nearly one-third of internationally traded fertilizers pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
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