On May 22, 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expressed its support for the decision made by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) aimed at enhancing the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, in light of increasing Iranian threats. This resolution, adopted during the IMO’s 111th session, reflects the UAE’s commitment to ensuring maritime safety and securing the vital shipping routes essential for international trade.
UAE Welcomes the IMO’s Decision on Maritime Safety
The UAE welcomed the resolution put forth by the Maritime Safety Committee of the International Maritime Organization, which received endorsement and joint sponsorship from various member states. This decision highlights the significant concern from member countries regarding the use of Iranian drones, missiles, and naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz and its surroundings, posing a serious threat to maritime safety and the lives of seafarers.
To date, Iranian aggression has claimed the lives of at least 11 seafarers and left over 20,000 sailors stranded. The resolution emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining the freedom of navigation for commercial vessels in the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman, as well as the right of passage in one of the world’s most crucial maritime corridors.
Urgent Call for Coordinated Action
The resolution calls on nations to take coordinated steps to safeguard maritime safety for commercial ships operating in the Strait of Hormuz and its vicinity. It commends the Secretary-General of the IMO for his commitment to ensuring the safety of sailors while urging member states to support efforts to facilitate the safe evacuation of commercial vessels trapped within the Gulf to secure locations, utilizing the maritime route approved by the organization.
Moreover, it stresses the need for countries to continue providing essential supplies such as water, food, and fuel to vessels still unable to leave the region. During the proceedings of the Maritime Safety Committee, the UAE, along with Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, issued a joint statement firmly rejecting the alternative route proposed by Iran for traversing the Strait of Hormuz.
Rejection of Iran’s Claims and Maritime Authority
The UAE and the signatory states also expressed their disapproval of Iran’s establishment of what it referred to as the “Persian Gulf Authority.” They described this entity as misleadingly portrayed as a sovereign authority managing vessel traffic in the strait. The latest announcement from this purported authority made unacceptable claims regarding its alleged jurisdiction, extending to the territorial waters of neighboring countries, including the UAE, blatantly violating their sovereignty.
The nations asserted that their rejection of both the Iranian route and this fictitious authority is grounded in international law and the principle of freedom of navigation, undermining the role of the International Maritime Organization, which has proven effective in facilitating safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
International Consensus on Maritime Security
In this context, the IMO’s decision promotes coordination among flag states, vessel owners, and operators to ensure continued usage of the maritime route sanctioned by the organization. Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, praised the adopted resolution, stating, “The international community has once again clearly expressed its rejection of Iran’s unlawful actions and the severe impacts they carry on maritime safety and the security of seafarers.”
Al Mazrouei emphasized that ensuring the safety and welfare of over 20,000 stranded sailors due to Iran’s illegal actions remains a top priority for the UAE. He urged member states of the International Maritime Organization and relevant international organizations to persist in their efforts to achieve these essential goals.