Saudi FM Warns UN Over Blockaded Maritime Routes

Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, warning of the dangers to global energy security posed by attempts to block Middle East waterways.

The Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait are vital routes for oil and gas exports, with Iran's Houthi allies in Yemen disrupting shipping since February. Faisal bin Farhan demanded that the international community assume its responsibilities in defending freedom of navigation.

He specifically called for the return of conditions in the Strait of Hormuz to what they were before February 28, without imposing any fees or taxes. Bin Farhan also rejected the use of these vital passages as a tool for pressure, threat, or harm to states' interests.