AiBotIn a significant declaration made during the ongoing 42nd Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit held in Bahrain, Oman’s Foreign Minister reaffirmed the sultanate’s unwavering commitment to securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman.
The remarks come at a time when tensions in the sensitive maritime region have escalated in recent years due to several incidents, including the seizure of tankers, a confrontation between the U.S. and Iranian navies, and more recently Iran’s attack on Israeli-occupied oil facilities in the northern province of Khuzestan.
Oman’s Foreign Minister highlighted the Strait of Hormuz’s significance in international trade, with approximately 20% of the world’s oil exports passing through it. The Sultanate’s top diplomat emphasized the need for its safe passage and the importance of adhering to international law.
“We must continue our collective efforts to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz,” he was quoted as saying. “The Sultanate of Oman, as a coastal state of the Strait, takes its responsibilities under international law, particularly under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, very seriously.”
In this context, Oman has stressed its commitment not to impose transit fees on international vessels passing through the Strait. However, the country underscored its special responsibility, as a coastal state, to support international efforts aimed at protecting maritime navigation, especially considering the immense significance of the Strait of Hormuz in global economic activity.
The GCC summit, held in the Bahraini capital, Manama, has brought together high-ranking officials from the six-member bloc – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – to discuss pressing regional issues and foster regional cooperation.
While tensions in the region persist, with long-standing disputes, including those between Iran and some GCC states, remaining unresolved, it becomes increasingly essential for regional players to work together to address security concerns, foster regional stability, and restore confidence in international navigation.
Oman’s emphasis on maintaining the Strait of Hormuz’s safety underscores its willingness to contribute positively to regional cooperation and global stability, further reinforcing its position as a key player in fostering a secure maritime environment for international shipping.