New york: Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, engaged with international media representatives at the United Nations headquarters as Bahrain led a high-level open debate of the Security Council on "The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain," convened at its request.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani emphasized the increasing concern regarding the security of international maritime navigation, especially in strategic waterways that are critical to global trade, energy security, and economic stability. Recent events in the Strait of Hormuz have highlighted the risks of disruptions in these routes and the extensive consequences that impact regions beyond their immediate vicinity.
Dr. Al Zayani highlighted the collective concerns of the global community, stating he was presenting a joint statement representing nearly one hundred United Nations member states. The complete list of participating nations will be published on the official website and through other media channels.
In the joint statement, Dr. Al Zayani reaffirmed support for Resolution 2817, condemning Iran's regional attacks. He highlighted the threat to international security and navigational rights due to Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The statement emphasized the importance of free navigation for global security and prosperity and rejected any unlawful threats or suspension of navigational freedoms, including the imposition of tolls, which violate international law as reflected in UNCLOS.
The statement also addressed the global impact of Iran's actions, which are hindering international shipping, increasing costs, and affecting energy markets and supply chains, impacting vulnerable economies and food-insecure populations. The signatories expressed their support for the International Maritime Organisation and regional partners, committing to work with the shipping industry to resume operations as conditions allow.
Countries supporting the statement include a diverse group of nations from across the globe, with entities such as the Gulf Cooperation Council, Arab League, and European Union also endorsing the statement.
At the meeting's conclusion, Dr. Al Zayani expressed gratitude to the signatories and reiterated that the invitation remains open for other UN member states to join the initiative.