Saudi Arabia raises concerns over seafarer rights in Strait of Hormuz

Saudi Arabia, representing a group of nations, has raised international concerns regarding the humanitarian conditions and rights of seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz. During the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khathila delivered a joint statement highlighting the severe risks faced by maritime workers.

The statement noted that attacks on civilian vessels have resulted in casualties and injuries. Many seafarers currently face critical shortages of food, drinking water, fuel, medicine, and medical care. Citing UN Human Rights Council resolution 56/18, the group emphasized that seafarers are a vulnerable category of workers who should not be held responsible for the circumstances in which they find themselves.

The joint statement called on all nations to ensure the protection of seafarers' lives, health, and dignity in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. It also commended humanitarian initiatives by several Gulf Cooperation Council countries, specifically noting their efforts in search and rescue, providing essential supplies, and facilitating crew changes through port authorities.