A senior United Arab Emirates (UAE) official has warned that Iran cannot be relied upon to guarantee safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as efforts to resolve the ongoing war remain deadlocked, according to Reuters.
Two months into the conflict, the strategic waterway, the Strait of Hormuz, remains largely shut due to an Iranian blockade, while the United States Navy continues to restrict Iranian oil exports. The disruption has cut off roughly 20% of global oil and gas supplies, fuelling fears of a wider economic downturn.
Global energy markets have reacted sharply. Brent crude surged above $111 per barrel on Friday, after briefly hitting $126 on Thursday, its highest level since March 2022.
Deepening mistrust in the Gulf
Anwar Gargash, a senior adviser in the United Arab Emirates Government, criticised Tehran’s actions, stressing that international law, not unilateral decisions, should guarantee navigation in the strait.
He described Iran’s actions as “treacherous aggression” against its neighbours, highlighting growing concern among Gulf states over security in the region.
War tensions persist despite ceasefire
Although a ceasefire between Washington and Tehran has been in place since April 8, tensions remain high. Reports that Donald Trump could approve new military strikes pushed oil prices higher and rattled markets.
Iran has reportedly activated its air defences and warned of a “wide response” to any fresh attacks. Senior Iranian officials say even limited U.S. strikes would trigger prolonged retaliation against American assets in the region.
The conflict, which escalated after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on February 28, has already claimed thousands of lives, particularly in Iran and Lebanon. Iran responded by targeting U.S. bases and allied infrastructure, while Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel.
Diplomatic deadlock
Negotiations remain stalled, with Iran cautioning against expecting quick progress. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, has yet to announce a date for renewed talks.
Meanwhile, Washington faces pressure under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, which requires justification to Congress for extending military engagement. However, U.S. officials argue that hostilities effectively ended with the April ceasefire.
Economic strain and military options
The war has worsened Iran’s economic crisis, though analysts suggest Tehran may endure prolonged pressure despite sanctions and export restrictions.
Reports indicate the U.S. is considering several options, including deploying ground forces to secure parts of the strait or expanding its blockade. Another proposal involves forming a multinational maritime coalition to safeguard shipping routes.
France and Britain have discussed participating but insist such efforts would only proceed once the conflict formally ends.
