Abu Dhabi ready to join maritime security efforts in Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates has signalled its readiness to participate in international efforts to safeguard maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, according to comments by a senior official reported by CNN.

Speaking on Tuesday, March 17, at the Council on Foreign Relations, Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, said Abu Dhabi aims to avoid further escalation but is prepared to contribute to initiatives designed to ensure safe navigation through the key shipping route.

His remarks come after several US allies declined a request from Donald Trump to deploy naval forces to assist in securing oil shipments through the strait, a corridor that typically carries around one-fifth of global oil supplies.

Gargash emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway critical to global trade and energy flows, arguing that responsibility for its security extends beyond regional countries.

Addressing the UAE’s potential role, he said any involvement would likely take place within a broader multinational framework, potentially led by the US and including participation from countries in Asia, Europe and other regions.

“At this stage, I do not see any formal plan for creating a structure, but the UAE believes this is an international waterway... The idea of holding the entire world hostage, whether in trade or energy, is regrettable, and we all need to work together to address this issue,” Gargash said.

“So if everything is in place, the UAE would naturally be part of any framework necessary to achieve that goal,” he added.

He also noted that discussions on a coordinated international approach are still ongoing. 

By Tamilla Hasanova