Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) welcomed a resolution adopted by the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) during its 111th session addressing threats to maritime safety in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
The resolution, proposed by the UAE and co-sponsored by several member states, expressed grave concern over Iran’s use of drones, missiles, and sea mines, and the resulting threats to safe navigation and seafarers.
According to the resolution, Iranian attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 11 seafarers and left more than 20,000 stranded.
The resolution stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the Arabian Sea and Sea of Oman and called for coordinated international efforts to support the safe movement of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
During the session, the UAE issued a joint statement with Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia rejecting Iran’s proposed alternative transit route and the establishment of a so-called “Persian Gulf Strait Authority”, describing the move as a violation of international law and the sovereignty of neighbouring states.
Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said the adoption of the resolution reflects international opposition to actions threatening navigational safety and the wellbeing of seafarers.
