The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is a vital artery for global trade, handling about 20% of the world's oil and 20% of liquefied natural gas. Beyond energy, the strait also serves as a key passage for the global trade of fertilizers, which are crucial for agriculture. In 2024, nearly 16 million tons of fertilizers were shipped through the strait, mostly consisting of urea and phosphate, which are essential for crop growth. This volume represents almost a third of all global maritime fertilizer trade, highlighting the strait’s central role in the global agricultural supply chain. For many countries in Asia, Africa, and Oceania, the strait is a lifeline for importing fertilizers. These nations heavily depend on such imports to maintain their agricultural output. The concentration of so much trade through a single, narrow passage means that any disruption—such as political tensions, accidents, or blockades—can have widespread consequences. This is especially true for countries that are most reliant on these imports and least able to handle sudden price increases or supply shortages. The connection between energy and agriculture is clear through the fertilizer trade. Natural gas is not only a major energy source but also a raw material for producing nitrogen-based fertilizers like ammonia and urea. When the price of natural gas rises or its transport is disrupted, the cost of these fertilizers increases. This, in turn, raises production costs for farmers and can influence how much they choose to produce. The ripple effect of such changes can be felt throughout the agricultural sector. Other parts of the agricultural supply chain are also linked to energy through indirect means. For example, phosphorus-based fertilizers rely on sulfur, a substance that is largely obtained from the refining of hydrocarbons. Disruptions in energy supply can therefore affect the availability and cost of sulfur, which in turn impacts the production of phosphate fertilizers. This creates a complex web of interdependencies between energy markets and agricultural inputs. In 2022, the International Monetary Fund highlighted the potential impact of such interdependencies. It found that a 10% increase in fertilizer prices could lead to a 7% rise in cereal prices within a quarter. However, the full effect on food prices for consumers tends to appear later—about ten to twelve months after the initial shock. This delay means that the consequences of a geopolitical crisis, such as an energy shortage, may not be immediately visible but can still significantly affect food prices over time as agricultural markets adjust and tensions spread to consumers.