Iran claims its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has coordinated the passage of 26 vessels through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz in the last 24 hours despite an ongoing confrontation with the United States over maritime access and sanctions.
According to Iran’s state-affiliated ISNA, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said:
“Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is being carried out with permission and in coordination with the IRGC Navy.”
Global Shipping and Energy Markets Under Pressure
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, historically carrying around 20% of global oil and gas exports.
The crisis intensified after the recent US-Israel conflict with Iran, which Tehran says led it to impose restrictions and operational control measures across the waterway. In response, the Trump administration reportedly tightened pressure on Iranian ports and oil exports.
Energy analysts warn the standoff is creating major instability in:
- Global oil markets
- Shipping routes
- Fuel prices
- International supply chains
UN Warns of Possible Global Food Crisis
The Food and Agriculture Organization warned Wednesday that prolonged disruption around Hormuz could trigger a major global food price shock within months.
The Rome-based UN agency said the crisis is expanding beyond shipping and energy into agriculture and food systems worldwide.
According to the FAO:
“The shock is unfolding in stages: energy, fertilizer, seeds, lower yields, commodity price increases, then food inflation.”
Officials fear prolonged instability could severely impact:
- Fertilizer production
- Grain transportation
- Food affordability
- Developing economies dependent on imports
Negotiations Remain Deadlocked
Despite rising tensions, President Donald Trump said Wednesday there had been “progress” in talks with Iran, though he again warned military action remains possible if no agreement is reached.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that:
“Return to war will feature many more surprises.”
The IRGC also threatened that any renewed attack on Iran could push the conflict beyond the Middle East region.
Experts Warn Crisis Could Drag On
Will Todman told international media both Washington and Tehran appear to believe continued economic pressure will strengthen their negotiating positions.
Analysts say neither side currently appears willing to make major concessions, increasing fears of:
- Wider military escalation
- Extended shipping disruption
- Long-term economic fallout
- Energy and food inflation worldwide