Abu Shihab says freedom of navigation remains a pillar of international law.
The UAE has accused Iran of threatening maritime security and disrupting the global economy through its actions in the Strait of Hormuz, while calling on the United Nations Security Council to uphold international law and take decisive measures to protect international peace and security.
Speaking during an open debate on upholding the principles of the UN Charter, Mohamed Abushahab said freedom of navigation remains a fundamental principle of international law and stressed the importance of safeguarding critical global trade routes.
Addressing the council, Abushahab said the UAE remains committed to a future built on stability, dialogue, and shared prosperity, adding that lasting peace cannot coexist with impunity or repeated violations of international norms.
“After eight decades of international cooperation in pursuit of peace and a shared global order, the United Nations Charter remains our primary shield against global disorder and the cornerstone of international cooperation,” he said.
The UAE representative argued that regional tensions have been aggravated by what he described as destabilising policies pursued by Iran, including support for armed proxy groups and actions that undermine regional security.
Abushahab further alleged that the UAE had faced unlawful attacks over the past three months targeting civilian infrastructure, including commercial ports, airports, energy facilities, and communications networks.
He also accused Iran of obstructing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, stating that such actions violate international law and pose significant risks to maritime security and the global economy.
The ambassador additionally referred to a drone attack launched from Iraqi territory against the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, describing it as a dangerous escalation. He noted that the Security Council had condemned the incident and characterised the attack as a serious breach of international law.
Abushahab reaffirmed the UAE’s right to protect its territory and population in accordance with international law and called for accountability for attacks targeting civilian infrastructure.
“The credibility of the international system depends on our willingness to uphold its rules when they are violated,” he told the council, stressing that deliberate attacks on civilian facilities must be unequivocally condemned.
The UAE concluded its remarks by urging the Security Council to fulfil its responsibilities under the UN Charter and act decisively to preserve international peace, security, and stability.
