UN chief urges freedom of navigation in Hormuz amid tensions

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz and called for the full restoration of international navigational rights.

His spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said there had been “a lot of activity” and “a lot of confusion” around the waterway, adding that freedom of navigation “needs to be respected by all parties”.

Dujarric also said recent disruptions have affected global supplies, noting that about 10 to 12 percent of fertiliser shipments are blocked and prices have risen alongside oil.

He added that the situation is impacting UN agencies’ ability to plan and procure resources, while reiterating that “there is no military objective that justifies the wholesale destruction of civilian infrastructure or the deliberate infliction of pain on a civilian population.”