Brussels: The European Union and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf have jointly reaffirmed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical international waterway. They emphasized that this freedom, including the right of passage, is protected under international law as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This protection allows vessels of all states to navigate these waters without obstruction, suspension, or conditions imposed by any state.
According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the European Union and Gulf States have strongly condemned recent attacks by Iran on commercial vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz. These actions have threatened the safety of civilians and sailors and breached international law and UN Security Council Resolution 2817. The statement highlights that such acts are indefensible and have also targeted the territorial integrity of regional nations, including Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan.
The joint statement categorically rejects any claims by a state to assert sovereignty or control over the Strait of Hormuz. It opposes any unilateral imposition of permit systems, transit fees, or service charges on international shipping. The statement underscores that the right of passage through international straits is a universal right under international law and cannot be subject to regulation or restriction by any state through bilateral agreements or memoranda.
The European Union and Gulf States have expressed solidarity with the countries affected by these attacks and the seafarers placed in danger. They emphasized that any threat to a country's security in this region is a matter of concern for all parties relying on the safety of this essential maritime route.
The statement calls for Iran to cease all attacks and interference with maritime navigation immediately and unconditionally. It urges Iran to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open without conditions, transit fees, or service charges, in full compliance with international law and Security Council Resolution 2817. The statement also rejects any unilateral or illegal mechanisms affecting the safety of passage through the Strait and calls for collaborative efforts within international and regional institutions like the International Maritime Organization.
Both the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council pledge to maintain close coordination to protect freedom of navigation, safeguard international shipping and seafarers, and promote peace and security in the region. They reaffirm their commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve the ongoing crisis and ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.