UN official warns of looming food crisis as Hormuz fertiliser plan stalls
Summary
A United Nations official warned that parts of Asia and Africa could face a food shortage if Iran and the United States do not agree soon on a plan to safely move fertiliser through the Strait of Hormuz. The plan involves a UN-run center in Oman to coordinate and monitor fertiliser shipments, which are important for farming in many countries.Key Facts
- A UN Under-Secretary-General said rapid agreement is needed before the planting season starts to avoid major impacts on farming.
- The proposed plan involves a UN-staffed coordination center in Oman to oversee fertiliser shipments and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
- The strait is key for the movement of fertiliser materials like urea and sulphur, with about one-third of global urea shipments passing through before recent disruptions.
- Conflicts between Iran and the US in the Strait of Hormuz have seriously reduced fertiliser shipping.
- The UN’s fertiliser transport plan can be started quickly if both countries agree soon.
- The plan includes UN monitors working with local officials to track ships and inspect cargo when needed.
- The ongoing political disagreements between Iran and the US have delayed the plan’s approval.
- Fertiliser shortages could lead to higher food prices and lower crop yields, especially in vulnerable regions like South Asia and parts of Africa.
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