UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations has announced the formation of a special task force to address growing risks to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.

In a statement delivered by UN Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General warned that any disruption in this global shipping route could trigger serious ripple effects, including increased humanitarian needs and negative impacts on agricultural production in the months ahead.

To mitigate these risks, the Secretary-General has established a dedicated task force led by Jorge Moreira da Silva, who also serves as Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services.

The task force will include representatives from key international bodies such as the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, the International Maritime Organization, and the International Chamber of Commerce, with the option to involve additional stakeholders as required.

According to the UN, the primary objective of the task force is to design technical mechanisms aimed at ensuring the continued flow of essential goods, particularly fertilizers and related raw materials, through the Strait of Hormuz to support global food security.

The initiative draws on previous UN-led efforts, including the UN Verification, Inspection and Monitoring Mechanism for Yemen, the Black Sea Grain Initiative, and the UN2720 Mechanism for Gaza.

UN officials emphasized that the mechanism will be developed in close consultation with relevant Member States, while fully respecting national sovereignty and international legal frameworks.

If successful, the initiative is expected to build confidence among Member States and contribute to broader diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.

As part of these efforts, the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Jean Arnault, will lead political engagement with concerned countries, supported by the newly established task force.