Persistent blockage of fertilizers in the Strait of Hormuz risks causing a “major humanitarian crisis” within “a few weeks,” the head of a UN working group tasked with clearing the passage of these crucial materials told AFP on Monday.
“We have a few weeks to avoid what will likely be a major humanitarian crisis. We could see a crisis that will plunge an additional 45 million people into hunger,” said Jorge Moreira da Silva in an interview with AFP.
Iran has been blocking the Strait of Hormuz for several months, through which a third of the world’s fertilizers have been passing, in retaliation for the war triggered by the United States and Israel on February 28. The exports that usually go through this strategic passage of global maritime trade are typically destined for Brazil, China, India, and Africa.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres established a task force in March, led by the executive director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Jorge Moreira da Silva, to set up a mechanism for the passage of fertilizers and related raw materials such as ammonia, sulfur, and urea.
Mr. Moreira da Silva said he has met with over 100 countries to garner support, particularly from UN member states, for this mechanism. However, the parties involved in the conflict – the United States, Iran, and Gulf countries – are not yet convinced.
Planting season
“The problem is that the planting season does not wait,” noted Mr. Moreira da Silva, with some planting seasons ending in a few weeks in African countries.
He believes that allowing the passage of five ships carrying fertilizers and related raw materials per day would prevent a crisis for farmers.
“It’s a matter of time. If we do not quickly address the source of the crisis, we will have to manage the consequences with humanitarian aid,” stated Mr. Moreira da Silva.
If an agreement is reached, the mechanism could be operational within seven days, according to the UN official. However, even if the strait were to reopen immediately, he said it would take three to four months for things to return to normal.
Although food prices have not yet skyrocketed, Mr. Moreira da Silva has noted a “sharp increase” in fertilizer costs. Experts predict this will lead to a drop in agricultural productivity, followed by a surge in food prices.
“We cannot hesitate on what is possible and urgent: allowing the passage of fertilizers through the strait and thus minimizing the risk of a serious global food insecurity,” he emphasized.
