Brussels: The European Union (EU) and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) have issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This comes in response to recent incidents involving attacks on commercial vessels by Iran, actions that have raised significant concerns regarding maritime security in the region. According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the EU and GCC have strongly condemned the attacks, which not only endangered civilian lives but also violated international law, including UN Security Council Resolution 2817. The statement highlighted that such actions against the sovereign territories of regional countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan are unjustifiable and pose a threat to international peace and security. The joint declaration categorically rejected any claims of sovereignty or control over the Strait of Hormuz by any state, opposing any permit systems, tra nsit fees, or service charges that could impede international shipping. The EU and GCC emphasized that the right of passage through this vital international strait is guaranteed under international law and should remain unrestricted by unilateral regulations. Expressing solidarity with the countries affected by the attacks and the seafarers endangered by these incidents, the EU and GCC reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of this essential waterway. The statement called on Iran to cease all forms of interference with maritime navigation immediately and to comply fully with international law and relevant UN resolutions. The EU and GCC pledged to continue close coordination to safeguard navigation freedom, protect international shipping, and promote peace and security in the region. They also reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve the crisis and ensure the free passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.