Abu Dhabi, UAE – The UAE and a number of other countries issued a joint statement strongly condemning Iran’s attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure in the Gulf, as well as the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz, considering this a direct threat to regional and international security.
Widespread international condemnation
The statement, which was signed by European, Asian and American countries, stressed that Iranian attacks on oil and gas facilities
and unarmed vessels constitute a flagrant violation of international law,
calling on Tehran to immediately cease all hostile operations, including mine-laying, missile and drone attacks.
Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle
The participating countries stressed that freedom of navigation in international waterways, especially the Strait of Hormuz,
is a fundamental principle guaranteed by international law, warning that disruption to global shipping
would directly affect the international economy, especially the most vulnerable groups around the world.
Moves to ensure energy stability
The statement indicated the countries’ readiness to work together to ensure the safe passage of ships through the strait, welcoming the coordinated release of strategic petroleum reserves,
along with cooperation with producing countries to increase supplies with the aim of stabilizing global markets.
The statement also affirmed that the international community is obligated to uphold international law and work to protect maritime security,
emphasizing the importance of supporting the countries most affected
by the repercussions of the crisis through the United Nations and international financial institutions,
thereby contributing to containing the escalation and preventing the conflict from spreading.
