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The UN Secretary-General has called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz amid rising global trade and energy concerns linked to stalled diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran.
Speaking at a high-level UN Security Council debate on maritime security, Antonio Guterres urged all parties to ensure free navigation through the critical shipping route.
“I appeal to the parties: Open the Strait. Let ships pass. No tolls. No discrimination. Let trade resume. Let the global economy breathe,” he said.
Guterres warned that disruptions since early March have significantly affected global energy security, food supply chains, and international trade flows. He stressed that the strait is one of the world’s most vital maritime chokepoints, through which a major share of global oil and liquefied natural gas passes.
He noted that the disruption followed escalating regional tensions after military developments earlier this year, with diplomatic efforts now underway to prevent further escalation and restore stability in maritime traffic.
The UN chief emphasized that continued restrictions could deepen global economic uncertainty and urged urgent international cooperation to safeguard shipping routes and prevent further disruption to markets and supply chains.