UN Chief Calls for Reopening of Strait of Hormuz as US-Iran Talks Stall
Speaking during a high-level Security Council discussion on maritime security, the UN Secretary-General made a direct appeal for the removal of barriers affecting shipping in the critical waterway.
"I appeal to the parties: Open the Strait. Let ships pass. No tolls. No discrimination. Let trade resume. Let the global economy breathe," Guterres said at a high-level UN Security Council debate on maritime security.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage responsible for transporting about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, has been significantly disrupted since early March. The situation escalated following a joint US-Israeli military operation against Iran on February 28.
Although the conflict has since paused and diplomatic efforts toward a lasting settlement are ongoing, shipping activity in the region remains unstable.
According to reports, the continued disruption has had wide-ranging consequences across global energy markets, food distribution networks, and international trade routes.
"Since early March, the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has struck at global energy security, food supplies, and trade. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints," Guterres said.
He emphasized that ensuring safe and unhindered maritime passage is both an economic necessity and a humanitarian requirement. He further warned that the financial consequences are already being felt worldwide.
Safe, unimpeded passage is an economic and humanitarian "imperative," he said, adding: "The economic shock has been immediate – and everyone is paying the price."
Beyond the macroeconomic impact, he also drew attention to the humanitarian strain caused by the crisis. Tens of thousands of seafarers are currently unable to return home, while thousands of commercial vessels remain trapped in uncertain and potentially hazardous conditions at sea.
“These men and women are not parties to any conflict,” he said. “They are civilian workers keeping the world supplied.”
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