At the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Awa Dabo, deputy UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted the cascading impacts of the conflict in the Gulf, including disruptions to energy shipping routes and the US naval blockade targeting vessels using Iranian ports. These actions, she stated, have destabilized global supply chains, deepened energy insecurity, and hindered humanitarian aid delivery. The crisis has also exacerbated food shortages, with economists warning that prolonged blockades could plunge vulnerable economies into poverty and hunger.
Dabo emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz—critical to the flow of 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas—must reopen promptly. “Unless this vital waterway is restored, millions face heightened risks of famine, particularly in regions reliant on affordable energy for food production and distribution,” she said, underscoring the urgency of diplomatic resolution.
Blocking a Food Catastrophe
Deputy High Commissioner Dabo also addressed the escalating humanitarian toll, urging immediate action to avert a global food security crisis. “Specialized UN agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), require urgent resources to prevent the worst outcomes,” she stated. The attacks on neighboring states—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Jordan—since February 28 have underscored the region’s instability, with humanitarian corridors into Iran and other affected nations increasingly obstructed.
Jemal Al Musharakh, UAE Permanent Representative to the UN, condemned the over 3,000 ballistic missile, cruise missile, and drone strikes Iran has launched against Gulf states since mid-February. He called for a cessation of hostilities, stressing that the international community must prioritize diplomatic channels to prevent further regional destabilization and civilian suffering.
Iranian Ambassador Ali Bahreini defended Tehran’s military actions as lawful self-defense under international law, alleging disproportionate Allied strikes against Iranian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and homes. “Iran’s acceptance of a ceasefire, despite its complexities, stemmed from a duty to prioritize regional stability and collective security,” Bahreini asserted. He reiterated efforts to halt aerial bombardments that endangered civilian areas, including schools.
Fragile Resolve
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk welcomed preliminary reports of a peace agreement, urging all parties to solidify the ceasefire and pursue a comprehensive resolution. He cautioned that the current moment demands “maximum restraint” to avoid relapse into violence, while also appealing for accountability in the conflict’s most egregious atrocities.
Secretary-General António Guterres echoed Türk’s plea, describing the proposed accord as a “critical step” toward de-escalation. The agreement reportedly outlines a permanent ceasefire, uncontrolled reopening of the Straits, and a framework for renewed dialogue. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Çavuşoğlu reaffirmed Ankara’s support for mediated diplomacy, warning of tensions resurgence if hostilities persist.
A Lifeline for Seafarers
The UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) hailed the negotiations as a milestone for maritime safety. Restoring navigational freedom in the Straits is vital for global energy logistics and seafarers’ well-being, the agency stated. It also underscored the need for accountability measures to ensure compliance with international maritime law.
Meanwhile, the UN human rights office reiterated its call for transparency regarding alleged U.S.-Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian schools. The deadliest was the February 28 bombardment of Munab Primary School, which killed 156 people, including more than 100 children. “The international community must demand a transparent investigation into these attacks and hold accountable those responsible under international law,” Türk urged.
