Eight nations condemn disruption of navigation in Hormuz and Bab Al-Mandab

Eight countries have declared that any disruption to maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab Al-Mandab is unacceptable and poses a threat to the security and prosperity of all. They called on all nations to clearly state their positions regarding any violations affecting international navigation.

The statement was issued by the German Foreign Ministry following the second meeting of foreign ministers and senior representatives from European partners and Indo-Pacific countries, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Participants included Germany, Australia, France, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Poland, and the United Kingdom.

The participants reaffirmed their full commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, noting that the global strategic environment has become more volatile compared to their previous meeting.

They emphasized that their cooperation is based on the principles of democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and international law. They added that their unity contributes to promoting peace, stability, sustainability, and prosperity in both regions, and stressed the responsibility of UN member states to support this path.

The participants pledged to protect the multilateral system based on international law and the UN Charter—including international judicial bodies—while advocating for reform of the United Nations to enhance its efficiency and ability to address challenges.