Iran says it will ‘facilitate and expedite’ humanitarian aid through Strait of Hormuz
Iran says it will ‘facilitate and expedite’ humanitarian aid through Strait of Hormuz
The Iranian ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva announced on Friday that Tehran has committed to easing the flow of humanitarian supplies and agricultural goods through the Strait of Hormuz. This move comes as Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict. The decision aligns with a UN request to ensure unimpeded passage of essential aid through the vital waterway.
While global markets and governments have primarily focused on disruptions to oil and natural gas supplies, the restriction of fertiliser has raised concerns about worldwide agricultural production and food security. “Iran’s action underscores its dedication to supporting humanitarian initiatives and ensuring critical aid reaches affected populations promptly,” stated Ali Bahreini, the ambassador, in a post on X.
“This measure reflects Iran’s continued commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts and ensuring that essential aid reaches those in need without delay,” Bahreini said in a post on X.
Earlier, the UN had established a task force to tackle the consequences of the war on aid distribution. The strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites followed shortly after Israeli forces claimed responsibility for the attacks, which Iran vowed to retaliate against. “The attack contradicts the extended deadline for diplomacy set by POTUS,” remarked Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, referencing U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned of a strong response, with Seyed Majid Moosavi, commander of the IRGC’s Aerospace Force, urging employees of U.S.- and Israel-linked companies to leave their posts. “This time, the equation will no longer be ‘an eye for an eye,’ just wait,” he added.
Despite the attacks, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reiterated its appeal for military restraint, emphasizing no rise in radiation levels at the targeted sites. “IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reiterates (his) call for military restraint to avoid any risk of a nuclear accident,” the agency posted on X.
In parallel, diplomats from nations such as Pakistan and Turkey have sought to arrange a direct dialogue between U.S. and Iranian representatives. Separately, G7 foreign ministers in France urged an immediate stop to attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, U.S. military vessels are approaching the region, transporting over 2,500 Marines and at least 1,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne, a unit trained for rapid deployment in hostile zones. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted during the G7 meeting that most U.S. goals in Iran are progressing faster than anticipated, with the possibility of achieving them without ground troops.
