GCC Welcomes Oman's Strait of Hormuz Initiative, Condemns Iran's Threats

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has welcomed Oman's initiative to establish a temporary maritime corridor in the Strait of Hormuz. The corridor aims to facilitate the evacuation of over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the vital waterway. The GCC Secretary-General, Jasem Albudaiwi, praised the move, stating it enhances freedom of navigation in accordance with international law and the Law of the Sea.

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The initiative enhances freedom of navigation in the Strait in accordance with international law and the Law of the Sea.

Albudaiwi highlighted that Oman's initiative supports regional security and stability, improves maritime safety, and upholds international law. He emphasized its contribution to ensuring the smooth flow of regional and global trade. The GCC also used the opportunity to condemn Iran's threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, which followed Oman's announcement.

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The secretary-general praised this initiative, which embodies the wise approach pursued by the Sultanate of Oman in supporting regional security and stability, enhancing maritime safety and security, and consolidating the principles of international law, thereby contributing to ensuring the smooth flow of regional and international trade.

The GCC affirmed that the Omani step not only aids in evacuating stranded seafarers but also bolsters supply chains for both regional and global economies. The council reiterated its support for all regional and international efforts aimed at enhancing maritime security, consolidating stability, and de-escalating tensions in the region.

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Albudaiwi expressed the GCC's rejection and condemnation of the claims issued by Iran and its threats to freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz following the announcement.