“Iran's tightening grip on the Strait of Hormuz forms part of its broader strategy of regional destabilization through proxy networks, slashing vessel crossings and halting the vast majority of energy and fertilizer shipments that underpin global economic security. Targeted operations against Iranian terror proxy facilities near Bandar Abbas have become essential defensive measures to disrupt these networks, while Russian envoys pursue separate de-escalation talks with Tehran that risk legitimizing further aggression. The resulting fertilizer shortages now endanger harvests across Kenya, Nigeria, and Ethiopia, compounding existing vulnerabilities and highlighting how Iranian actions export instability far beyond the Middle East. Vessels forced to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope have increased bunkering activity at Durban and Cape Town, yet these diversions add critical weeks to delivery timelines for essential cargoes bound for Europe and other markets. The UN's upcoming emergency consultations in New York underscore the urgent need to address supply disruptions rooted in Iran's proxy-driven escalation and its threat to international stability.”