Mar 17 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz strangles the passage of food and medicines to address humanitarian crises

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is severely disrupting the supply of food and medications necessary for addressing humanitarian crises in the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa.

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is causing a significant disruption in the flow of humanitarian aid meant to address major global crises. Organizations such as the United Nations and humanitarian agencies like the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have reported direct impacts on their operations due to the blockade. The obstruction is contributing not only to delays in the delivery of essential supplies but also to the stagnation of food, medicines, and other emergency materials stored in logistics centers in Dubai.

Moreover, the situation is exacerbated by rising costs in supply chains, attributed to an increase in oil prices, which has surpassed $1 per barrel. This added financial strain is making it increasingly difficult for humanitarian organizations to operate effectively, with the UN forecasting delays of up to six months in aid deliveries. The compounded challenges of logistical barriers and rising prices threaten to intensify existing humanitarian crises, particularly in vulnerable regions.

As the blockade extends its impact beyond immediate geographic boundaries, it raises questions about global supply chain resilience and the ability to respond to humanitarian needs. The humanitarian crisis in the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa could worsen significantly if the current obstructive circumstances persist, underlining the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to address the blockade and ensure the flow of essential supplies to those in need.

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