The United Nations has announced a new task force to ensure safe movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement was made by Jorge Moreira da Silva on X, following direction from António Guterres.
The task force will work on a system to make maritime transit safe and predictable. Its main goal is to support humanitarian shipments and keep trade routes open. In his statement, Jorge Moreira da Silva said he was “honoured to coordinate” the effort and stressed the need for urgent action.
The UN Secretary General announced today the creation of a Task Force which I am very honoured to coordinate. It is for the development of a Mechanism to have safe, orderly, and predictable maritime transit for humanitarian purposes through the Strait of Hormuz.
— Jorge Moreira da Silva (@UNOPS_Chief) March 27, 2026
This Task Force…
Meanwhile, several global bodies will be part of this initiative. These include UNOPS, UNCTAD, International Maritime Organization and International Chamber of Commerce. They will work together with other UN agencies.
In addition, the focus will be on keeping fertiliser trade moving. Disruptions in the route could affect food production in many regions. Officials warn that delays may hit countries in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
Finally, the UN says quick action is needed to avoid a wider humanitarian crisis.