Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Renewed attacks on shipping vessels in the Strait of Hormuz have unsettled global energy markets, prompting the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to call for "maximum restraint and de-escalation." Reports indicate that three merchant ships, along with Iranian targets, were hit in recent incidents in this vital waterway that supports a significant portion of the world’s energy supply. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez condemned the "reckless attacks" over the past two days and highlighted the risks posed to innocent seafarers. He urged flag States, shipowners, and operators to avoid transiting the Strait in ways that would place crews in unnecessary danger.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the renewed strikes and counterstrikes between the United States and Iran in the past 24 hours as "alarming." He warned that a return to full-scale hostilities could have catastrophic consequences for the region, international peace and security, and the global economy. UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reiterated concerns about the humanitarian and economic impact of renewed conflict.
About 6,000 seafarers remain stranded on hundreds of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz—a decrease from previous numbers but still a major disruption. Shipping traffic, which previously averaged about 130 vessels per day, had increased before the latest escalation following a temporary ceasefire and memorandum of understanding reached the prior month between the US and Iran.
The UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) warned that challenges for countries depending on energy from the Gulf are expected to continue after more than 100 days of disruption. Dario Liguti, Director of UNECE’s Energy, Housing and Land Management Division, indicated that high prices, price volatility, and supply challenges—especially in regional markets—are likely to persist in the coming months.