UAE calls for immediate, unconditional reopening of Strait of Hormuz

At the United Nations Security Council, the UAE has called for the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, urging that Iran be held fully accountable for obstructing international navigation.

Speaking during a high-level debate on maritime safety, Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al Marar said recent actions by Iran, including attacks and interference with shipping, pose a serious threat to regional and global security.

The open debate on 'The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain' was chaired by the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Al Marar pointed to a newly adopted UN Security Council resolution condemning any attempts to disrupt navigation in the Strait, and stressed that the international community is demanding Iran end unlawful actions and ensure free passage in line with international law.

He warned that using the Strait as political leverage could undermine global trade and set a dangerous precedent for other key waterways.

Al Marar also outlined violations, including illegal fees on vessels, threats to navigation and the use of mines, adding that Iran should be held liable for damages resulting from its actions.

The UAE says disruption in the Strait is already affecting global energy supplies, supply chains and food security, particularly in developing countries.

Al Marar reaffirmed the UAE’s readiness to support international efforts to keep the Strait open, as more than 90 countries joined a unified call for Iran to halt its actions and guarantee unrestricted transit.