UN Chief Urges End to Attacks on Commercial Shipping
Aug 25, 2026
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate end to attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure as conflicts continue to disrupt major global trade routes.
Guterres urged all parties to respect international law, including the law of the sea and international humanitarian law, and to protect civilian vessels, infrastructure and seafarers operating in the Black Sea, Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea. He warned that disruptions to key maritime chokepoints are putting additional pressure on global trade and food supplies.
The UN chief said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz had slowed to a trickle, contributing to higher commodity and freight prices. He also proposed a temporary UN-backed confidence-building mechanism to facilitate safe and predictable passage for vessels carrying fertilizers and related raw materials.
The call came as maritime security tensions remained high in the region. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that an oil tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile near Oman and advised vessels operating in the area to exercise caution.
Meanwhile, the United States said it had redirected 71 commercial vessels, disabled three and boarded two as part of its efforts to enforce a blockade against Iran. Washington has also imposed sanctions on nearly 60 entities, individuals and vessels linked to Iran's military and energy sectors.
Guterres warned that attacks and disruptions along major shipping routes could have wider consequences for the global economy, including higher energy, food and fertilizer costs. He stressed that navigational rights and the protection of civilian shipping must be respected to safeguard international peace and security.
