New York, USA – Mohammed Abu Shehab, the UAE representative to the UN, affirmed that Iranian practices in the Strait of Hormuz constitute a direct threat to maritime security and international navigation.
He also stressed the need to respect international law and protect civilian vessels in vital waterways.
UAE affirms commitment to protecting international navigation
During a press conference held with several ambassadors
from UN Security Council member states regarding developments in the Strait of Hormuz,
Abu Shehab explained that targeting commercial vessels constitutes a flagrant violation of international law.
He also called for strengthening international efforts to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and secure strategic waterways.
The UAE representative stressed that clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz is
a top priority to ensure the safe and stable flow of global trade.
He further emphasized that the security of maritime routes is
a fundamental element of global economic stability and international energy security.
International criticism and warnings of maritime escalation
Abu Shehab pointed out that the continued threats in international waterways exacerbate regional tensions.
This necessitates coordinated international action to deter any practices
that could undermine freedom of navigation or use the Strait as a tool for political or economic pressure.
In a related context, international reports addressed developments related to
a temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran.
This ceasefire, announced last April through Pakistani mediation,
was part of efforts to de-escalate tensions and open a path to negotiations.
Press reports also indicated diplomatic efforts aimed at consolidating the truce
and exploring security arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz.
This comes amidst ongoing indirect contacts between the concerned parties.
