Geneva:The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has emphasized the urgent need to safeguard seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to the severe humanitarian conditions they face and the risks to their fundamental rights.
According to Saudi Press Agency, this call was made in a joint statement delivered by Saudi Arabia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, during the general debate at the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. He spoke on behalf of a group of countries representing various regions.
The ambassador expressed deep concern over the ongoing insecurity and harsh living conditions for seafarers, noting that attacks on civilian vessels have led to casualties and injuries among crew members. Many seafarers are struggling to access basic necessities such as food, water, fuel, medicine, and medical care.
He referenced Human Rights Council Resolution 56/18, which acknowledges seafarers as a category of workers needing protection and affirms their lack of responsibility for their current circumstances. The ambassador highlighted the importance of protecting their lives, health, safety, and dignity in line with international law.
The joint statement commended the efforts of relevant parties to safeguard seafarers, particularly acknowledging humanitarian initiatives by some Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. These efforts include search and rescue operations, providing essential supplies and medical aid, offering administrative flexibility, and facilitating crew changes.
Saudi Arabia concluded the statement by urging states to protect seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that their safety is crucial for secure, unimpeded maritime navigation in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This appeal aligns with international calls to ensure the protection of commercial vessels and safe navigation in the strait.