Saudi Arabia warns world failing to protect Gulf shipping

Saudi Arabia has warned the United Nations that efforts to obstruct shipping lanes in the Middle East pose a threat to global energy security. Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan made the call during the UN General Assembly on Saturday. Since the US and Israel initiated their conflict with Iran in late February, Iran and its Houthi allies in Yemen have disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, both crucial routes for oil and gas exports.

The foreign minister expressed disappointment at the international community's lack of response to these threats to international peace and security. He emphasized the kingdom's commitment to safeguarding freedom of navigation in all international waters, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.

Bin Farhan specifically demanded the restoration of conditions in the Strait of Hormuz to pre-February 28, without any fees or taxes, and rejected any use of these vital passages for pressure, threats, or harm to state interests, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions.