Published on: 2026-05-11
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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As the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz deepened and tensions between Iran and the United States increased, global oil prices rose again on Monday morning, prompting the UN Secretary-General to call for a prompt peaceful resolution of the conflict.
“I strongly urge to continue negotiations until a diplomatic solution is found, to observe the ceasefire regime and to ensure the complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz… Any resumption of hostilities will have terrible consequences,” he statedAntónio Guterres.
Speaking in Nairobi on the eve of the Africa Forward summit, the UN chief emphasized that the crisis in the Middle East is a common problem. Guterres reminded that about 13 percent of African imports — mainly oil and fertilizers — pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
“We have appealed to both sides with a call to open the strait without any restrictions… This demand is dictated by the interests of the entire international community,” he said, speaking before journalists in the capital of Kenya. “This is the only way to return prices for energy carriers and fertilizers to pre-war levels.”
Sowing Under Threat
Kenya remains in a less vulnerable position than other African countries, as most of its planting campaign has already been completed. Meanwhile, many other countries on the continent are still awaiting deliveries of fertilizers and other agricultural materials produced in the Persian Gulf countries.
Over the past month, the price of urea—one of the most common nitrogen-rich fertilizers in the world—has increased by more than 35%—right in the middle of the sowing season.
“Without fertilizers, we risk facing a serious food security problem next year,” said the Secretary-General.
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