Cairo, Egypt – Khalifa bin Shaheen Al-Murr, Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed that holding Iran accountable for its aggression is a fundamental pillar
for deterring it and preventing a recurrence of what he described as aggression.
He also stressed the necessity of adopting a unified and firm Arab stance in confronting
the escalating threats targeting the security and stability of Arab states.
A dangerous escalation and a violation of international law
Al-Murr explained, during his speech before the Arab League, that the Iranian attacks represent
a flagrant violation of international law and the United Nations Charter,
stressing that they directly targeted civilian facilities and vital infrastructure,
including ports, airports, energy facilities and residential areas, and resulted in civilian casualties.
Implementing the international resolution
Al-Murr stressed the need for Iran to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817 of 2026,
which called for an immediate cessation of attacks, affirming the right of Arab states
to defend themselves in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter,
and to take all necessary measures to protect their sovereignty and security.
Threat to navigation and economic security
Al-Murr warned of the dangers of Iran threatening freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz,
considering any disruption to shipping traffic a grave violation of international law
and a threat to the stability of the global economy and supply chains, particularly in the energy and food security sectors.
He emphasized that what he described as attempts to close the strait constitutes “economic terrorism”
targeting not only the countries of the region but also extending its impact to the international community.
International challenges and procedures
Al-Murr called for international measures to ensure freedom of navigation and secure vital sea lanes.
Al-Murr also called for intensifying Arab and international efforts to confront Iranian threats,
including the nuclear and missile program, stressing that achieving security
and stability in the region requires a comprehensive approach to these challenges,
in light of what he described as a pivotal stage in the region’s history.
