The United Nations has warned that renewed attacks around the Strait of Hormuz could heighten risks to global energy security as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned that a return to full-scale hostilities would have catastrophic consequences for the Middle East, international peace and the global economy. The warning follows reports that commercial vessels were struck alongside Iranian targets in the strategic waterway.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) condemned the attacks, describing them as reckless and warning that they have placed seafarers at serious risk. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez urged shipowners and flag states to avoid exposing crews to unnecessary danger while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait remains one of the world’s most important energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. According to the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), continued instability could prolong supply disruptions, increase price volatility and place further pressure on energy-importing countries.
UNECE also warned that strategic oil reserves remain at historically low levels and that prolonged disruptions could lead to renewed increases in energy prices and raw material shortages. The agency added that ongoing heatwaves are expected to increase electricity demand for cooling while placing additional strain on energy infrastructure.
The UN is urging countries to strengthen energy resilience through improved efficiency, strategic reserves and increased investment in domestic energy production and renewable energy as geopolitical risks continue to weigh on global energy markets.