The United Nations has offered to facilitate the transport of fertiliser, which has been hampered by the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war, AFP reports.
“The purpose is simple: to reduce immediate risks, support more orderly and predictable transit, and help rebuild the confidence necessary for diplomacy and de-escalation,” Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tells a press briefing.
He insists that the UN “would not authorise passage” through the strait or “alter the rights or obligations” of states under international law. The world body will serve as a “neutral facilitator,” registering and verifying ships carrying fertiliser and related products.
“Of course, it can only be done if the countries that are involved in this conflict all agree to accept the mechanism,” Guterres says.
