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Updated May 19, 2026 · 12:47
Middle East News Updated May 19, 2026

UAE Condemns Iran's Unlawful Gulf Attacks and Strait of Hormuz Disruptions

UAE has condemned Iran's "unlawful" attacks on Gulf countries and disruption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking at a UN meeting, UAE First Secretary Sarah AlAwadhi warned of global economic crisis risks. She highlighted threats to food security, inflation, and sustainable development. UAE demanded Iran respect international law and stop impeding transit passage.

UAE again condemns Iran's "unlawful" attack in Gulf region and disruption on Strait of Hormuz passage

New York, May 19

UAE reiterated its condemnation of Iran's attack on the country and other fellow countries in the Gulf region, terming them as "unlawful", and also raised serious concern over Tehran's control over the navigation route through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting the global oil and gas supplies.

Speaking at the Economic and Social Council's special meeting on safeguarding energy and supply flows, the UAE's First Secretary, Sarah AlAwadhi, delivered the remarks challenging Iran's actions after the US-Israel strikes that escalated the conflict in the Gulf region.

"The UAE condemns Iran's unlawful attacks on the UAE and fellow countries in the region, as well as its disruptions in the Strait, and its strikes on oil and gas infrastructure and vessels in the region," Sarah AlAwadhi said.

Highlighting the significance of the Strait of Hormuz passage, the UAE said that Iran has taken the critical supplies of oil and gas as hostages, creating a ripple effect that plunges the world into economic crisis.

Sarah AlAwadhi said Iran's actions have " direct implications for food security, inflation, and sustainable development. Rising fuel and transport costs are already increasing pressure on food systems, fertiliser access, freight markets, and household budgets worldwide. Developing countries in particular face heightened risks to economic stability and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. "

UAE reiterated that the navigational rights and freedoms of merchant and commercial vessels must be respected, in accordance with international law and demanded Iran to stop its attempt to impede transit passage and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

"Ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy and trade through the Strait of Hormuz is imperative for the future of global development. In all efforts, the UAE remains committed to the safeguarding of energy and supply flows, and looks forward to continued partnership and collaboration on this matter," Sarah AlAwadhi said.

Meanwhile, the US and Iran continue to negotiate over the terms of a permanent ceasefire to end the West Asia conflict. However, the discussions have not resulted in any substantial progress towards achieving peace as Washington continues to threaten Iran for not abandoning its nuclear programme.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

But let's not forget the US-Israel strikes escalated this. Iran's actions are wrong, but we must see the full picture. India should push for diplomacy—both sides need to de-escalate before this spirals into a full-blown war that impacts our economy and energy security.

Vikram M

Strait of Hormuz is a chokepoint—20% of global oil passes through it. Iran using it as a weapon is a direct threat to India's energy security. We import nearly 85% of our crude oil, and any disruption will jack up petrol prices and inflation here. The Gulf countries must act together 🇮🇳🤝🇦🇪

Ananya R

While Iran's actions are condemnable, the West needs to stop projecting all blame on Tehran. The US-Israel strikes started this mess, and now everyone's surprised Iran retaliated. UAE is caught in the middle—time for India to mediate and push for a neutral peace deal.

Rohit P

UAE's statement is spot on—Iran is holding the world hostage over energy. But I'm skeptical about US-Iran negotiations. They've been talking for months with no result. Meanwhile, our fuel prices keep climbing. India should diversify energy sources—renewables and more Russian oil routes—to reduce reliance on Hormuz.

James A

This is a classic case of geopolitics playing havoc with global supply chains. As someone who works in energy logistics, I can tell you—any disruption in Hormuz sends shockwaves through markets instantly. UAE is right to demand adherence to international law. Iran needs to understand that aggression only isolates them further.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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