A group of 80 countries passed a resolution on March 11, 2026, calling for the full return of maritime access from the Strait of Hormuz. This action was taken to address the existing disruptions in trade and energy markets.
Content of the resolution and its reasons
The resolution was passed with 13 votes in favor and two abstentions from China and Russia. In this resolution, Iran's attacks on the Gulf countries and Jordan are condemned, and the existing threats to maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz are examined. The signatory countries of this resolution called for security for all ships and the guarantee of their navigation rights under international law, and also rejected any additional fees or restrictions on passage.
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Concerns and necessary actions
The statement that was passed refers to Iran's attacks on regional countries and its interventions in maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. It also criticizes the new tensions from the Houthis in Yemen and attacks on Saudi Arabia and navigation in the Red Sea. The signatory countries expressed concern over the increased activities of the Houthis near Bab el-Mandeb and stated that these activities could create further problems for commercial vessels.
They called on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and regional partners to create conditions for shipping companies to safely return to the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, the statement emphasizes that sailors should not be put at risk or used as leverage in these conflicts.
In response to a question from a reporter about the possibility of indirect negotiations between Bahrain or other Gulf countries with Iran, Bahrain's Foreign Minister, Abdullatif Al-Zayani, referred to the role of diplomatic channels but did not provide details in this regard. He added that the goal of these negotiations is to achieve a political solution.
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