Anwar Gargash: Hormuz passage must be guaranteed in any US-Iran deal

Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has emphasized the importance of ensuring the security and free passage of the Strait of Hormuz in any potential US-Iran agreement. In a recent statement made during a weekend briefing, Gargash underscored that the Strait of Hormuz, which is the world's most critical oil artery, must not be weaponized or subjected to any form of hostility.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, connecting the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. It is a vital chokepoint for global oil and gas trade, with approximately 30% of global oil production passing through it daily. This makes the strait a strategic asset for several countries, including the UAE, Iran, and other oil-producing nations.

Gargash's call for the guarantee of the Hormuz passage comes amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional security concerns. The UAE, as a key player in the Gulf region, has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and maintain regional stability.

In his statement, Gargash reiterated the UAE's commitment to ensuring the security and safety of maritime trade in the region. He warned against any attempt to weaponize the Strait of Hormuz, which could have severe consequences for global energy markets and international relations. The UAE has previously expressed concerns about the potential impact of any US-Iran agreement on the stability of the Gulf region and the security of its own interests.

The UAE's position is supported by other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which have also called for the protection of maritime security in the region. The GCC, which includes Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, has been vocal in its opposition to any actions that could destabilize the Gulf or threaten the free flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.

The US and Iran have been engaged in negotiations aimed at reaching a nuclear deal, with the latest round of talks taking place in Vienna in early 2023. However, progress has been slow, and both sides have expressed concerns about the other's commitments. The US has been pushing for a comprehensive agreement that addresses not only Iran's nuclear program but also regional security issues, including the situation in Syria and Yemen.

In light of these challenges, the UAE's call for the guarantee of the Hormuz passage is a significant statement. It highlights the need for all parties involved in any US-Iran agreement to prioritize regional stability and the security of global oil supply routes. The UAE's concerns are not only about its own interests but also about the broader implications for the global economy and international relations.

As negotiations between the US and Iran continue, the UAE and other Gulf nations will closely monitor the developments, ready to engage in further diplomatic efforts to ensure the security and stability of the region. The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point for these efforts, as its importance to global trade and energy security cannot be overstated.

In conclusion, Anwar Gargash's statement serves as a reminder of the critical role the Strait of Hormuz plays in the global economy and the need for all parties to prioritize its security in any potential US-Iran agreement. The UAE's call for a guarantee of free passage through the strait underscores the country's commitment to regional stability and its determination to safeguard its own interests and those of its Gulf neighbors. As tensions between the US and Iran persist, the UAE's voice will be an important one in shaping any future agreement, ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains a secure and reliable conduit for global oil trade.