The United Arab Emirates, alongside Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, has formally denounced Iran’s attempt to establish a "Persian Gulf Strait Authority." In a joint statement, these nations condemned Tehran’s move to claim jurisdiction over maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, labeling it a blatant violation of international law and a direct infringement on the sovereign territorial waters of neighboring countries. The coalition argued that Iran’s unilateral actions undermine the long-standing framework of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which has historically been the sole legitimate body responsible for ensuring the safety of this vital global trade artery.

In a significant diplomatic win for the region, the UAE spearheaded a resolution adopted by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee to counter these threats. The resolution highlights deep concerns regarding the safety of seafarers amid reports of Iranian drone, missile, and sea mine activity in the area. By advocating for coordinated international efforts to protect merchant vessels and support the welfare of over 20,000 stranded crew members, the UAE and its partners are pushing back against regional instability. Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei, the UAE’s Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized that the global community has sent a clear message that such unlawful interference will not be tolerated, as the focus remains on securing the free flow of critical energy shipments and protecting human life.