About 80 countries have called for the urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and condemned attacks by Iran and its Houthi allies, saying the disruptions are threatening international trade, maritime security and global energy supplies.
The countries made the call in a joint statement delivered at the United Nations by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.
The statement said Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten international security and freedom of navigation.
The countries also condemned the Houthis’ renewed conflict in Yemen, their attacks on Saudi Arabia and strikes in the Red Sea.
According to the statement, the Houthi advance towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could further increase risks to international shipping, maritime security and global trade.
The statement was backed by Gulf Arab states as well as major Western powers.
Iran and the Houthis, however, have described their actions as defensive measures.
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