Abu Dhabi, UAE – The United Arab Emirates welcomed a resolution issued by the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Committee on the Protection of the Marine Environment.
The resolution called on the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately cease attacks
and threats targeting commercial vessels, oil tankers, port infrastructure, and coastal civilian facilities.
It also warned of the serious environmental risks that could result from such actions in the Arabian Gulf region.
Fears of widespread marine pollution
The resolution adopted during the 84th session of the Committee expressed grave concern about the potential
for these attacks to cause widespread marine pollution due to oil spills, chemical leaks, or sea mines.
It also noted that this threatens the region’s biodiversity and could have long-term environmental
impacts extending to the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman, and the Arabian Gulf.
The resolution called upon Member States and regional and international organizations
to strengthen cooperation in preparedness and response to marine pollution incidents.
Furthermore, it requested a review of emergency plans for dealing with major marine pollutants
to ensure the reduction of potential risks to the marine environment and international navigation.
Environmental security is part of regional stability
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri,
Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, affirmed that protecting the marine environment
in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman is a fundamental pillar of food and economic security in the region.
They also emphasized their rejection of any attacks threatening ships or infrastructure,
given the broad environmental and economic risks they pose.
For her part, Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Nature,
affirmed that the UAE will continue to cooperate with international partners to protect the marine environment
and prevent escalation, based on the understanding that environmental security is inseparable from regional and global stability.
