Saudi Arabia calls for urgent protection of seafarers stranded in Strait of Hormuz
GENEVA — Saudi Arabia emphasized the importance of protecting seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, in view of the harsh humanitarian conditions and threats to their fundamental rights. This was stated in a joint statement delivered by Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, on behalf of a group of countries representing various regions, during the general debate under Item 4 of the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. In the statement, Bin Khothila, speaking on behalf of the group, expressed grave concern over the continued insecurity and difficult living conditions confronting seafarers. He highlighted the casualties and injuries among crew members resulting from attacks on civilian vessels, while a number of seafarers continue to face difficulties in accessing food, drinking water, fuel, medicine, and medical care. The statement referred to Human Rights Council Resolution 56/18, which affirms that seafarers constitute a category of workers requiring protection and that they bear no responsibility for the circumstances in which they find themselves. It stressed the need to ensure the protection of their lives, health, safety, and dignity in accordance with international law. The joint statement welcomed the efforts undertaken by relevant parties to protect seafarers, particularly commending the humanitarian initiatives undertaken by some Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries through their port and maritime authorities. These initiatives included search and rescue operations, the provision of essential supplies and medical assistance, flexibility in administrative procedures, and the facilitation of crew changes. The joint statement called upon states to ensure the protection of seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz. It emphasized that their protection is inextricably linked to guaranteeing safe and unimpeded maritime navigation, in accordance with the provisions of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This comes amid ongoing international calls for the protection of commercial vessels and seafarers and for ensuring the safety of navigation in the Strait.