The Middle East conflict is placing serious pressure on global supply chains and hampering humanitarian operations, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher said.

According to him, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz area could directly affect humanitarian aid deliveries to sub-Saharan African countries.

"I am very concerned about rising food, energy, and fertilizer prices. I fear that further escalation could damage other supply routes as well," he said at a press conference.

He added that the consequences of the conflict are not limited to specific regions but are driving up prices and worsening the needs of people in various countries.

Fletcher noted that the UN is appealing to all parties to the conflict to ensure safe routes allowing humanitarian aid to reach those in need unimpeded.