UN chief calls for US‑Iran talks, US blocks ships
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- António Guterres called for continued US‑Iran talks and an absolute ceasefire, warning that there is no military solution to the conflict.
- Pakistan hosted marathon discussions in Islamabad that ended in a stalemate, yet the UN said the talks underscored seriousness and were a positive step toward renewed dialogue.
- Saudi Arabia was thanked by the UN chief alongside Egypt and Türkiye as a mediator supporting the talks.
- United States announced a blockade of ships entering and leaving Iranian ports, which took effect on Monday.
- 20,000 seafarers remain stranded on ships in the Persian Gulf, facing increasing daily hardships, the UN noted.
- Arsenio Dominguez warned that stranded vessels risk low supplies and possible attacks, endangering seafarers’ lives.
- UN task force on the Strait of Hormuz continues to engage with relevant parties on design and operation, and the Secretary‑General’s personal envoy Jean Arnault remains actively engaged in the region.
Why it matters: The UN’s push for dialogue aims to prevent further escalation, but the U.S. blockade and the stranding of about 20,000 seafarers tighten humanitarian strain and disrupt the flow of oil, fertilizer and LNG that passes through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global markets and food security.
