Brussels: The European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council have jointly issued a statement reaffirming the importance of freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for international trade. This statement underscores that the right of passage is enshrined in international law, as articulated in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and applies to vessels from all nations without any conditions imposed by any state.

According to European Union, the statement strongly condemns recent attacks by Iran on commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz and on the sovereign territories of regional states such as Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan. These actions are described as violations of international law and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, posing threats to civilian lives and the safety of mariners.

The statement rejects any unlawful claims of sovereignty or control over the Strait by any state and opposes any imposition of permits, transit tolls, or service fees on international shipping. It emphasizes that no bilateral agreements or memorandums between states can legally restrict the right of passage through this international strait, which remains safeguarded under international law.

Expressing solidarity with the affected states and seafarers, the statement highlights that any threat to the security of one is a concern for all who rely on the safety of this crucial waterway. The EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council call on Iran to immediately cease all attacks and interference with maritime navigation, maintain open and unconditional access to the Strait, and fully comply with international law and Security Council resolutions.

The statement further emphasizes the need for states to collaborate within international and regional institutions responsible for maritime governance, particularly the International Maritime Organisation, to ensure safety and security. The EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council pledge continued coordination to uphold navigation freedom, protect international shipping, and promote lasting peace and security in the region, in line with international law and the United Nations Charter.

Finally, the statement calls for restraint and reaffirms a commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as the preferred means to resolve the ongoing crisis and ensure the unimpeded freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.