A European-Gulf statement condemned in the strongest terms the attacks carried out by Iran against commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, and against the sovereign territories of countries in the region, according to Al Ekhbariya.

The statement noted that freedom of navigation, including the right of passage through the Strait of Hormuz, is guaranteed under international law, as it is a strait used for international navigation, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Strait of Hormuz

This comes within a joint statement between the High Representative of the European Union and Bahrain, in its capacity as the chair of the Gulf Cooperation Council, regarding the Strait of Hormuz and freedom of navigation.

Related news

The statement stressed the rejection of any illegitimate claims of sovereignty or control over the Strait of Hormuz, and opposition to imposing permits or fees on international navigation traffic.

It expressed full solidarity with the countries affected by the Iranian attacks, affirming that any assault on the security of one country is a concern for all parties dependent on the safety of the Strait of Hormuz.

Commitment to dialogue and diplomacy

The statement called on Iran to immediately and unconditionally cease all attacks and interference in maritime navigation, and to keep the Strait of Hormuz sustainably open without conditions or fees. It also called for restraint, and affirmed commitment to dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.