Qatar has strongly condemned an Iranian attack targeting two oil tankers belonging to the UAE’s ADNOC while the vessels were transiting the Strait of Hormuz, describing the incident as a serious violation of international law and freedom of maritime navigation.
In a statement issued on August 14, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the attack also constituted a clear violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
Qatar Rejects Use of Strait of Hormuz as Leverage
Ministry renewed Qatar’s firm rejection of attempts to use the Strait of Hormuz as a tool of pressure or leverage and called for the strategic waterway to be reopened without conditions.
Qatar stressed that freedom of navigation through the strait is an established principle that cannot be compromised, warning that continued disruption threatens the vital interests of countries in the region as well as the wider global economy.
Full Solidarity With the UAE
The Ministry called for an end to what it described as unjustified Iranian aggression against the assets of neighbouring countries. Qatar also reaffirmed its full solidarity with the United Arab Emirates and its support for measures taken by the UAE to protect its assets.
UAE Says No Injuries Reported
The UAE had earlier condemned the targeting of the two ADNOC-affiliated vessels while they were crossing the Strait of Hormuz. According to a UAE Foreign Ministry statement carried by Qatar News Agency, no injuries were reported in the attack.
Regional Condemnation Widens
The incident also drew condemnation from across the region. The Gulf Cooperation Council described the attacks as a dangerous escalation and a direct threat to maritime navigation and international trade. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt and other Arab parties also issued statements condemning the targeting of commercial vessels.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime passages, connecting the Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Any prolonged disruption to commercial shipping through the waterway can have consequences for regional trade, energy transportation and global markets.