14/04/2026
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14/04/2026
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ABU DHABI, Apr 14: HE Saeed Al Hajeri, UAE's Minister of State, has warned that the weaponisation of the Strait of Hormuz amounts to “economic aggression against the entire international community,” stressing that disruptions to the strategic waterway threaten global trade, energy security and maritime stability.
Writing in Business Today, Al Hajeri said the Middle East conflict highlights the deep interconnectedness of the global economy, noting that any crisis in the region can rapidly ripple across continents. He said the Strait of Hormuz—through which a significant share of global oil, gas and petrochemical supplies flows—remains a critical artery for international commerce.
He accused Iran of engaging in what he described as economic warfare against global trade by targeting maritime infrastructure and disrupting shipping activity, calling such actions violations of international law. He also said threats to the strait of Hormuz risk global energy shortages, supply chain disruptions and rising costs, with developing economies expected to be the most affected.
Al Hajeri stressed the need for a “conclusive outcome” addressing Iran’s nuclear programme, missiles, drones and regional proxy networks, while also ensuring full protection of freedom of navigation and ending attacks or coercive measures in the waterway.
He added that international consensus—including UN and maritime resolutions—has made clear that freedom of navigation must be preserved, and warned that even short disruptions in the strait can trigger global inflation and economic instability.
The minister said the UAE, as a key logistics and trade hub, plays an important role in stabilising global supply chains, but stressed that resilience alone is not sufficient if critical maritime routes remain under threat. He called for coordinated international action to safeguard global trade routes and prevent further escalation in the region.
