The United Arab Emirates has called on the United Nations to authorize urgent measures, including the possible use of force, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by Bloomberg.
UAE Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab requested in a letter dated Tuesday to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the UN Security Council.
Abushahab urged the council to take “immediate action” to ensure safe navigation in and around the vital maritime passage.
The UAE specifically asked the Security Council to invoke Chapter 7 of the UN Charter, a legal mechanism that allows the council to address threats to international peace and security.
Under Chapter 7, the council can impose measures ranging from economic sanctions and blockades to authorizing the use of military force.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy routes, has faced major disruptions since early March after Iran reportedly moved to restrict traffic in response to military strikes by the United States and Israel that began on February 28.
About 20 million barrels of oil, roughly 20 percent of global supply, normally pass through the strait each day.
The disruption has pushed global oil prices higher, interrupted shipping routes, and increased fears of prolonged economic instability.
The conflict has escalated tensions across the Middle East. Reports say US and Israeli strikes on Iran since late February have killed more than 1,340 people, including Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to claims cited in regional reports.
Diplomatic observers say the UAE’s request signals growing concern among Gulf states about the economic and security impact of the continued disruption of the vital maritime corridor.
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