United Nations launches international mechanism to reduce risks and support organized passage in the Strait of Hormuz

Washington, Aug 24 (KUNA) -- The United Nations announced on Monday the launch of an international mechanism to reduce risks and facilitate organized passage through the Strait of Hormuz, affirming that freedom of navigation is a “fundamental pillar” of global peace and security.

In a press conference in New York, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the new mechanism aims to “reduce immediate risks, support organized and predictable passage, and help rebuild the trust necessary for diplomacy and de-escalation in the Strait of Hormuz.” He added that the mechanism “is not concerned with granting approvals for passage through the strait, nor does it alter the rights and obligations of any UN member state under international law,” emphasizing that “sovereign decisions will remain entirely with member states, and the United Nations will act solely as a neutral facilitator.”

He stressed that freedom of navigation is a “fundamental pillar” of peace, security, and shared prosperity, and that protecting it is a “legal obligation and a humanitarian imperative,” urging all parties to cooperate with the mechanism established by the Working Group on Humanitarian Needs Related to the Strait of Hormuz.

The Secretary-General noted the mechanism could be operationalized “rapidly,” pointing to encouraging international support for this effort. He affirmed that the mechanism “is not a substitute” for the full restoration of freedom of navigation or the political solutions necessary to end conflicts, “but rather a practical first step” to reduce risks, protect civilians, and safeguard the movement of essential goods “even during the conflict.”

The UN Secretary-General warned that the alternative would be continued disruption, deepening mistrust, and worsening hardships borne by people in areas beyond those directly affected.

In response to journalists’ questions, Guterres said the mechanism initially concerns the registration and verification of vessels carrying fertilizers and related materials, with a coordination mechanism in the Sultanate of Oman. He clarified that the mechanism is ready to operate and is awaiting “acceptance by states.” (End) A.M.M. / N.S.A.