The UAE welcomes the decision of the Marine Environment Protection Committee of the International Maritime Organization, which calls on Iran to stop attacks that threaten to cause marine pollution in the Arabian Gulf region.

The United Arab Emirates welcomed the decision of the Marine Environment Protection Committee of the International Maritime Organization, adopted during its 84th session, which calls on the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately stop attacks and threats targeting commercial ships and marine tankers, vital port infrastructure, and coastal civilian facilities, which would expose the marine environment to pollution resulting from leaks of oil, chemicals, sea mines, or any other harmful substances.

The resolution expressed deep concern about the possibility that these attacks could result in widespread marine pollution in an area with great marine biodiversity, which could have long-term and wide-ranging negative effects in the region, calling on member states and relevant regional and international organizations to strengthen cooperation in the field of pollution preparedness and response, and to review emergency arrangements for major pollutants that may affect the Arabian Sea, the Sea of ​​Oman, and the Gulf region.

Member States called on the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization to monitor the negative environmental impacts resulting from Iran’s actions in the region.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al-Dahhak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency in Abu Dhabi, expressed that the decision issued by the Marine Environment Protection Committee recognizes that the environmental damage threatening the Arabian Gulf will not remain limited to a specific region. The protection of the marine environment in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman represents a fundamental pillar of food, water and economic security in the region. We condemn any attacks targeting infrastructure and commercial ships, due to the risks they may entail. It could lead to repercussions that could get out of control, harm the unique biodiversity of the region, and disrupt fishing and navigation activities that constitute a lifeline for millions of people throughout the region.

For her part, Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Special Envoy of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs for Natural Affairs, welcomed the decision, stressing that the UAE will continue to work with international partners to prevent escalation and preserve this vital natural system, based on its awareness that environmental security is inseparable from regional and global stability.