UN Secretary-General António Guterres urgently called on Monday for the "immediate" reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the halt in maritime traffic through this critical passage could trigger an energy crisis, severe trade disruptions, and potentially a global food emergency.
Guterres addressed an open debate of the Security Council organized by Bahrain, describing the current situation as "the most significant disruption to supply chains since the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine."
According to EFE, Guterres emphasized that about one-fifth of the world's oil trade, one-fifth of liquefied natural gas, and nearly a third of internationally traded fertilizers pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
"Reopen the strait. Allow trade to resume. Give the global economy a chance to breathe. This moment calls for restraint and dialogue," he urged the Security Council.
The humanitarian impact is already alarming: over 20,000 seafarers remain stranded at sea and more than 2,000 commercial vessels face risks and navigation restrictions.
"These individuals are not part of any conflict. They are civilian workers who keep the world supplied," stressed the Portuguese diplomat.
Guterres warned that a prolonged blockade could push millions, especially in Africa and South Asia, into hunger and poverty.
The World Food Program predicts an additional 45 million people globally in acute hunger, with increases of 21% in West and Central Africa, while the FAO anticipates a drop of up to 50% in cereal yields in key African regions for the 2026-2027 season.
Simultaneously, 96 countries are demanding the reopening of the strait "without hindrances or transit fees," in a joint declaration led by Bahrain that includes Spain, the United States, the European Union, the League of Arab States, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Arsenio Domínguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, emphasized to the Council that the principle of freedom of navigation "is non-negotiable."
Background on the Closure
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on March 4, 2026, using mines, drones, and missiles as a retaliatory measure against Operation Epic Fury, a joint offensive by the United States and Israel that destroyed Iranian military infrastructure and killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei along with 49 senior officials.
The price of Brent crude surged from $67 per barrel in February 2026 to over $126, and the International Energy Agency has labeled the crisis as the most severe energy supply disruption in history.
Following failed negotiations in Islamabad on April 12, Trump ordered a naval blockade with 12 warships, 100 aircraft, and 10,000 troops in the Gulf of Oman, effective from April 13.
Tensions Between the U.S. and Iran
On April 23, Trump instructed the Navy to fire on vessels laying mines in the strait, asserting that the United States seeks "total control" of the maritime route.
Iran proposed reopening the strait on Monday in exchange for Washington lifting the naval blockade and ending the war, excluding negotiations on its nuclear program; the proposal was relayed via Pakistan and rejected by Trump.
On Tuesday, Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran informed him they are in a "State of Collapse" and requested the United States to open the Strait of Hormuz "as soon as possible."
The United Arab Emirates announced its departure from OPEC and OPEC+, effective May 1, a move analysts interpret as a blow to the oil cartel amid the energy crisis.
Guterres reiterated that his good offices remain "available" to facilitate a negotiated solution, but Russia and China have already vetoed a Security Council resolution to unblock the strait on April 7, with 11 votes in favor, two against, and two abstentions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway through which about one-fifth of global oil trade, one-fifth of liquefied natural gas, and a significant portion of fertilizers pass, making it crucial for international trade and energy supply.
What triggered the closure of the Strait of Hormuz?
Iran closed the Strait on March 4, 2026, in retaliation to Operation Epic Fury, a military offensive by the United States and Israel that targeted Iranian military infrastructure and killed several top officials.
What are the potential consequences of the closure?
The closure threatens to cause a global energy crisis, severe trade disruptions, and a possible food emergency, impacting millions worldwide, particularly in Africa and South Asia.