MIDDLE EAST LIVE 12 March: Shipping attacks, rising oil prices and widening humanitarian crisis

From the Website of United Nations
link: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/03/1167118

MIDDLE EAST LIVE 12 March: Shipping attacks, rising oil prices and widening humanitarian crisis

War continues across the Middle East, with impacts growing far beyond the region. Oil prices are hovering around $100 a barrel as attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure disrupt key supply routes. Strikes and counterstrikes between Israel, Hezbollah and Iran continue, while ships have reportedly been hit in the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, sending shocks through the global economy. Meanwhile, UN agencies are expanding humanitarian relief efforts as displacement rises and civilian needs grow. Stay with us for live updates from across the UN system. App users can follow coverage here.

Production team: Vibhu Mishra with Daniel Johnson in Geneva

HIGHLIGHTS

Major escalation across Israel-Lebanon 'Blue Line': UN peacekeepers report a sharp increase in hostilities across the Blue Line, with more than 120 projectiles fired from Lebanon into Israel, followed by Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire.

Lebanon crisis deepens: Escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah continues to drive mass displacement and civilian casualties across Lebanon, with hundreds of thousands forced from their homes and humanitarian needs rising.

Children paying a heavy price: UN agencies warn the regional conflict is becoming catastrophic for children, with more than 1,100 reported killed or injured and millions facing disrupted schooling and displacement.

Shipping attacks and oil price surge: Multiple vessels have reportedly been struck near the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, while oil prices have climbed to around $100 a barrel, raising concerns over global energy markets and supply chains.

Security Council discusses Iran sanctions committee: Ambassadors discussed the 1737 committee, which oversees UN sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear programme.

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