The United Arab Emirates has joined 21 other nations in issuing a strong joint statement condemning Iran’s recent actions in the Gulf region, including attacks on commercial shipping and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The 22 nations have expressed their willingness to contribute to efforts in ensuring safe passage through the Strait.
Released on March 21, 2026, by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the statement is endorsed by the leaders of the UAE, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, Denmark, Latvia, Slovenia, Estonia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Czechia, Romania, Bahrain, Lithuania, and Australia.
The signatories condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, strikes on civilian infrastructure such as oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces. They express deep concern over the escalating conflict and its broad implications.
Key points from the statement include a direct call on Iran to immediately halt threats, mine-laying, drone and missile attacks, and any other efforts to block commercial shipping through the Strait, a demand for Iran to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817, and an affirmation that freedom of navigation is a core principle of international law, enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The joint statement issues a warning that Iran’s interference disrupts global energy supply chains and poses a threat to international peace and security, with effects felt worldwide—particularly by the most vulnerable populations, and it calls for an immediate comprehensive moratorium on attacks against civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities.
The countries emphasised their readiness to contribute to efforts ensuring safe passage through the Strait and welcome preparatory planning by other nations. They also highlighted steps to stabilise energy markets, such as the International Energy Agency’s authorisation of a coordinated release from strategic petroleum reserves, collaboration with producing nations to boost output, and support for affected countries via the United Nations and international financial institutions.
The statement concludes by underscoring that maritime security and freedom of navigation benefit all nations, urging every state to respect international law and uphold principles essential for global prosperity and security.
This coordinated response follows heightened tensions in the region, including condemnations by bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, where a UAE-tabled declaration received co-sponsorship from over 115 member states, and amid reports of significant disruptions to global oil flows through the critical waterway.
