Share to ClassroomIran War Shuts Hormuz, Raises Food Prices
The war between the United States and Iran began on February 28. It has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow sea route. About 20% of the world's oil moves through it. Inside Iran, food prices have jumped. After the internet partly came back on Tuesday, people learned the news. Cooking oil costs 308% more than last year. Chicken costs 190% more. Rice costs 170% more. Afghanistan can no longer get supplies through Iran's main port.
The Strait of Hormuz is only 21 miles wide. It links the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. Most oil for Asia and Europe must pass through it. Iran says the United States is fighting an economic war. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports Iran's food prices are 140% to 200% higher. President Masoud Pezeshkian set up a team to stop unfair prices. Experts say Iran's high prices are now permanent.
Afghanistan is hurt most. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) said its food for hungry mothers and children ran out in mid-April. Transport costs have tripled. Container rentals went from about $3,000to over $7,000. Now the Trump government is asking Europe to help. The Czech foreign minister offered to help watch the area. Trump has called the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) a 'paper tiger' and may leave it.
