UN establishes working group for Strait of Hormuz humanitarian issues

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has established a special working group to address the potential humanitarian impact of disruptions to maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz. As regional conflicts escalate, concerns have arisen regarding the security of supply chains and their subsequent effects on global agricultural production and humanitarian aid delivery. The working group is tasked with developing technical mechanisms to mitigate these risks and ensure the continued flow of essential goods. Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), will lead the group. Other participating organizations include the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Additional stakeholders may be invited to join the effort as needed. The initiative draws inspiration from existing UN frameworks such as the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the Gaza monitoring mechanism established under Resolution 2720.