New York

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced serious concern over growing restrictions and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, urging the full restoration of international navigational rights and freedom of movement through the key shipping lane.

Speaking through UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, the UN said there had been significant activity and confusion surrounding the status of the waterway, with several maritime incidents reported over the last 48 hours. The organisation stressed that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be respected by all parties.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime routes, carrying a large share of global oil exports. Any disruption there often triggers concerns in energy markets and global supply chains.

The UN also warned of widening humanitarian and economic fallout from the crisis. According to Dujarric, roughly 10 to 12 per cent of global fertiliser supplies have been blocked, contributing to higher prices for fertiliser and urea. Rising oil and commodity costs are also affecting the planning and purchasing capacity of UN agencies and aid operations.

The diplomatic appeal comes as a fragile two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran nears expiry, with both sides reportedly issuing fresh warnings while exploratory talks are expected in Pakistan.

The broader Middle East also remains tense. New US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon are reportedly due to begin despite continuing sporadic violence linked to a separate ceasefire involving Hezbollah.

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Meanwhile, Emmanuel Macron has renewed calls for de-escalation, reportedly criticising recent manoeuvres around the Strait of Hormuz as a mistake.