Arab League rejects Iran’s claims over Arabian Gulf and Hormuz

Arab League position on regional stability

The League of Arab States reaffirmed that Arab countries will not be used as leverage or “held hostage” by Iran in regional disputes, stressing unity and solidarity among member states in the face of recent developments.

Arab League Council meeting

These remarks were delivered during an extraordinary ministerial-level Arab League Council meeting held via videoconference, which addressed alleged unlawful Iranian attacks on Arab states and Iran’s responsibilities under international law. The session was chaired by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, as the current chair of the Council.

International law and freedom of navigation

Aboul Gheit emphasised that freedom of navigation in international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, is protected under international law and maritime conventions. He stated that Iran has no legal right to control the strait or impose restrictions on maritime traffic, and that any such measures lack legal standing.

Compliance with UN Resolutions

He also noted that Iran has not complied with relevant UN Security Council resolutions, nor acknowledged responsibility for attacks on several Arab states, which he described as violations of sovereignty and international law. He called for full compliance with international obligations and accountability for damages and losses, including compensation.

Arab solidarity and security concerns

The Secretary-General stressed that any attack or intimidation against one Arab state is considered an attack against all, reaffirming collective Arab solidarity. He also condemned attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, describing them as violations of international norms and humanitarian principles.