India and Gulf nations urge maritime security at UNGA

During the United Nations General Assembly, several nations, including India, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, raised urgent concerns regarding the security of international maritime routes and commercial vessels.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed deep concern over attacks on commercial ships and crews in the Gulf region, calling for restraint and the uninterrupted flow of energy and trade. He emphasized the need to protect sailors and vessels caught in regional conflicts.

Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi, noted that regional warfare has nearly paralyzed trade through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting energy security and global price stability. He reaffirmed Oman's commitment to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to ensure safe passage.

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, linked stability in the Gulf directly to global energy security and supply chains, stating that maintaining secure maritime movement is a shared international responsibility. Saudi Arabia also voiced opposition to any fees or restrictions imposed on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.