India has urged the international community to protect critical sea lanes, warning that disruptions to maritime trade during conflicts can threaten global food security.
Speaking at a UN Security Council debate on food crises, India’s UN envoy Harish Parvathaneni said secure shipping routes are essential for the movement of food, fertilisers, fuel and other commodities. He warned that disruptions can disproportionately affect developing countries that depend on imports.
India called for safe humanitarian access and measures to ensure that sanctions do not unintentionally disrupt legitimate food and agricultural trade. It also urged countries to protect commercial shipping and maritime infrastructure in line with international law.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said at least 266 million people faced acute food insecurity in 2025. He highlighted conflicts in Sudan and Gaza and warned that attacks and restrictions around key waterways were pushing up commodity prices and disrupting supply chains.
Guterres noted the importance of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries a significant share of global oil and fertiliser supplies. Disruptions there, along with attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, could further affect global food supplies.
India also called for stronger domestic agriculture, diversified supply chains, improved storage and climate-resilient farming. It stressed the need for affordable fertilisers, quality seeds, technology and financing, particularly for developing nations.
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