Greece has joined more than ninety countries in backing a joint declaration that calls for maritime security and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following recent developments that have raised renewed concerns over one of the world’s most vital shipping routes.
Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, delivered the statement at the United Nations headquarters and said the international community was meeting “at a moment of growing concern over the security of international navigation.”
Greece joins global call on Strait of Hormuz shipping security
Al Zayani said developments in the Middle East have highlighted the serious risks that any disruption to critical sea routes could pose. He warned that the consequences would not remain confined to the region but could affect global trade, energy markets, and supply chains.
According to the declaration, the participating countries reaffirmed their full support for United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, which condemns Iran’s attacks against neighboring countries.
The statement also stressed that free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains a cornerstone of global security and prosperity. It was added that no country should threaten or unlawfully suspend the rights and freedoms of navigation.
Legal warning over tolls and restrictions
The declaration placed particular emphasis on international law, rejecting any attempt to unlawfully threaten or suspend navigation rights and freedoms. This includes the possible imposition of tolls, which the statement said would violate international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The participating countries also pointed to the fact that Iranian actions are already disrupting international shipping, raising costs, and creating turbulence in energy markets and critical supply chains far beyond the Middle East.
Support for the IMO and wider participation
Al Zayani reiterated support for the International Maritime Organization, saying countries would continue working together so shipping can resume normal operations as soon as conditions allow.
He also said the initiative remains open for other United Nations member states to join. Looking ahead, he pointed to the upcoming high-level open debate of the Security Council, where more than eighty countries are expected to participate.
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