Strait of Hormuz Disruption Could Spike Food Prices: UN

News Desk 

New York:  The United Nations’ top humanitarian official has warned that the expanding conflict in the Middle East could have far-reaching humanitarian consequences worldwide if tensions continue to escalate.

Speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher said disruptions to major maritime trade routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, could push up global food prices, strain health systems and hinder the delivery of humanitarian supplies.

He cautioned that such disruptions would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations already struggling with crises across different regions.

Fletcher also warned that the escalating conflict risks diverting international attention and resources away from other major humanitarian emergencies, including those in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ukraine.

Reiterating the need to uphold international law, he stressed the importance of ensuring protection for humanitarian workers operating in conflict zones. He said aid agencies would continue to support civilians caught in the growing violence despite increasing risks.

“The world is facing a moment of grave peril,” Fletcher said, warning that humanitarian crises were becoming increasingly interconnected and complex.

He added that the consequences of the fighting could spiral beyond the control of those involved, while vast resources were being devoted to warfare even as humanitarian aid budgets faced cuts.

In this context, Fletcher called for urgent diplomatic efforts and restraint to prevent further escalation.

“What we need is de-escalation and an immediate cessation of hostilities, genuine dialogue and negotiations in line with the Charter of the United Nations,” he said, urging world leaders to ensure that “calmer heads prevail.”