Middle East conflict triggers global fertilizer crisis, FAO warns of impending harvest failure

The FAO warns that the ongoing Middle East crisis is causing a global fertilizer shortage due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening lower crop yields and tighter food supplies through late 2026 and into 2027. Critical trade routes have been paralyzed, stalling an estimated 3 to 4 million tonnes of fertilizer trade per month. The FAO is calling for alternative trade routes and increased financial support for farmers to mitigate near-term food security risks.