rki.news | Source: Anadolu
UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday warned that the continuing military escalation in the Gulf has developed into a global crisis, disrupting trade, threatening economic stability and increasing humanitarian suffering worldwide.
Speaking at UN headquarters, Guterres said six months of conflict have severely affected shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, causing major disruptions to global energy supplies, food markets and international supply chains.
He cautioned that soaring prices for food, fuel and essential agricultural products are placing growing pressure on families, farmers and vulnerable nations. According to the UN chief, the economic fallout is slowing global growth and risks pushing millions more people into poverty.
Guterres stressed that the humanitarian consequences are worsening as prolonged instability continues to affect livelihoods and economic recovery across many regions.
Calling for an immediate end to hostilities, he urged all parties to respect international law and restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, two of the world’s most strategic maritime routes.
The UN chief emphasized that diplomacy remains the only sustainable path toward peace, urging governments to prevent further escalation and work together to restore regional stability, protect global commerce and reduce the growing humanitarian impact.