At UN, Saudi FM warns world failing to protect Gulf shipping

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan cautioned on Saturday at the United Nations General Assembly that efforts to hamper Middle Eastern waterways pose a threat to global energy security. He demanded the international community take greater steps to safeguard freedom of navigation. Following the United States and Israel's intervention against Iran in late February, Iran has obstructed shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Additionally, Iran's allies, the Houthis in Yemen, have blocked the Bab al-Mandab Strait. These two critical waterways are essential for oil and gas exports. The Saudi Foreign Minister lamented the international community's lack of responsibility in addressing issues threatening international peace and security. He emphasized the kingdom's commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation in all international waters, notably the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.

The minister further demanded the restoration of pre-February 28 conditions in the Strait of Hormuz, without imposing any fees or taxes. He vehemently rejected any use of these vital passages for exerting pressure, threats, or causing harm to state interests, in compliance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.

Bin Farhan made his statement shortly after US President Donald Trump rejected an Iranian proposal for a deal to reopen Hormuz, which included conditions like a Middle East ceasefire and the release of frozen Iranian assets.