New york: The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Mr. Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, has called for a firm international response to the Iranian attacks on GCC countries and the threats posed by the Houthi militias to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait. He emphasized the need for immediate accountability to uphold international law, ensure freedom of navigation, and protect vital energy and natural resource infrastructures.
According to Union of OIC News Agencies, Mr. Al-Budaiwi made these remarks during a high-level open debate at the United Nations Security Council in New York. The session, entitled "Natural Resource Governance: A Pillar for Peace, Security and Prosperity," addressed the significant challenges facing the international community. Al-Budaiwi highlighted the importance of good governance in natural resources as a key component of GCC countries' national and collective policies, noting their substantial contribution to global energy markets.
The Secretary-General condemned the hostile rhetoric of the Houthi militia, including false allegations against Saudi Arabia and threats to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait. He described these actions as a dangerous escalation that violates international law, endangers freedom of navigation, and threatens the security of a crucial maritime passage. Such threats, he noted, jeopardize regional stability and undermine international efforts to protect global supply chains.
Al-Budaiwi also criticized Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have involved targeting commercial vessels, planting sea mines, and making explicit threats to impede passage. He stressed that these practices violate international law and erode confidence in the security of one of the world's most critical maritime routes.