Kuwait Reaffirms Neutrality and Calls for Protection of Maritime Routes

11/04/2026

Kuwait Reaffirms Neutrality and Calls for Protection of Maritime Routes

KUWAIT CITY, Apr 11: Kuwait's Ambassador to South Africa, HE. Salem Al-Shibli has affirmed that Kuwait remains outside regional and international conflicts and will not allow its territory to be used to launch attacks against any country, stressing that Kuwait’s foreign policy is rooted in moderation, positive neutrality, and respect for international law.

Speaking at a dialogue session on maritime navigation during the 9th Indian Ocean Conference 2026 in Mauritius, Al-Shibli emphasized Kuwait’s commitment to promoting regional and international stability and safeguarding freedom of navigation under international law.

He warned that any attempts to close or obstruct maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, pose a serious threat to global energy security, noting that the waterway is a vital corridor for international oil and gas trade and a shared global responsibility.

The ambassador reiterated Kuwait’s support for international maritime law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and stressed the importance of protecting civilian and commercial shipping while enhancing global cooperation to ensure safe navigation.

He also welcomed recent developments, including ceasefire efforts in the region and the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), which condemned attacks on Kuwait and other GCC states and rejected actions that threaten international shipping routes.

Kuwait, he said, rejects any destabilizing actions in the region and continues to call for adherence to international law and peaceful resolution of disputes.