Iran has permitted a limited number of grain cargo ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid the conflict with the US and Israel, according to marine tracking data. At least six vessels unloaded at Imam Khomeini port between March 15-16 before transiting the strategic waterway, with Greek-managed ships making up the majority of these rare transits.

Iran's de facto closure of the strait has brought regional exports to near halt, causing energy price surges as approximately one-fifth of the world's oil normally passes through this vital chokepoint. Tehran heavily relies on grain imports, bringing in 8-10 million tonnes annually despite producing some of its own food.

With annual inflation at 47.5%, Iranian authorities announced a halt to all food exports to prioritize domestic needs. While the country had reported strategic wheat reserves for four months, food costs had already pushed many families into hunger before the conflict.