According to a warning from the United Nations, the escalating tensions in the Middle East are having a serious impact on humanitarian and economic conditions in various countries around the world.
As reported by the UN News Service, the rise in oil prices, caused by a decrease in shipping volumes through the Strait of Hormuz, is leading to increased costs for transportation, electricity, and agricultural materials, especially in countries that rely on imported energy resources.
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Moreover, problems in shipping and rising insurance rates due to military risks are adding further strain to global supply chains. The need for fertilizers is also raising serious concerns about future food volumes.
The humanitarian situation is worsening: rising fuel and transportation prices are affecting the cost of aid. The World Food Programme (WFP) reported that the crisis in the region has significantly disrupted global food supply chains. Shipments of about 70,000 metric tons of food, enough to feed four million people for a month, are either delayed, becoming more expensive, or being redirected.
A lack of fertilizers could severely impact future harvests. The WFP predicts that in the event of a prolonged crisis, up to 45 million people worldwide could be on the brink of starvation.
According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the reduction of maritime cargo flow through the Strait of Hormuz is intensifying financial pressure on developing countries. Increased uncertainty is forcing investors to leave the markets, weakening national currencies and raising the cost of loans.
At the same time, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) notes that women and girls bear the brunt of the crisis.
In Lebanon, over 1.2 million people have become displaced. Among them are about 13,500 pregnant women, many of whom cannot access the necessary medical care. More than 620,000 women and girls are at risk of violence and exploitation.
UNFPA is expanding its efforts by providing mobile clinics, safe spaces, and essential kits for women and infants.
However, the UN agency warns of the potential inability to provide vital services due to a lack of funding.
Based on independent analysis of new satellite images and technical data, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed information about the consequences of recent military strikes near the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in Iran. One of the strikes occurred just 75 meters from the plant's perimeter; however, the plant itself was not damaged, according to analysis of images from April 5.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi once again warns: the continuation of military actions near an operational nuclear power plant with stockpiles of nuclear fuel could lead to a serious radiological accident with catastrophic consequences for both the Iranian population and the environment. He emphasized that nuclear facilities and their surroundings should not be subjected to attack.
- Since February 28, Israel and the United States have begun military actions against Iran, which include air and missile strikes on cities and military facilities. U.S. President Donald Trump called this operation "Epic Fury." In response, Tehran is attacking Israel and American bases in various countries in the region. Additionally, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world's oil shipments pass.
- As a result of the attacks, many high-ranking officials and military personnel in Iran have been killed, including the country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son Mojtaba Khamenei has taken his place.
