The Greek delegation, addressing the UN General Assembly in the debate on the use of the veto in the Security Council, said it aligned itself with the UN statement and stressed that “freedom of navigation is a fundamental pillar of international peace, security and economic prosperity.”

As the political coordinator of the Permanent Representation of Greece, Mr. Thanopoulos stressed, this is “one of the oldest and most recognizable principles of international law”, which is enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which sets “the universal and uniform legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be conducted”.

The Greek delegation stressed that Greece, “as a leading maritime nation”, remains “deeply committed to the defence of maritime safety and freedom of navigation in accordance with international law”, explaining that in this context it voted in favour of the draft resolution tabled by Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The proposal, he noted, “underscores the importance of ensuring the passage of commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law,” calling the passage “one of the most critical sea lanes in the world and a vital artery for international trade and global economic prosperity.”

Referring to the regional crisis, Greece stressed that the conflict has “direct implications not only for the Gulf region but for all states”, expressing “firm solidarity with GCC partners” and condemning “Iran’s illegal and unprovoked missile and drone attacks against countries in the Gulf region, including civilian infrastructure and critical energy facilities”.

At the same time, it expressed deep concern about “ongoing disruptions to global energy and agricultural supplies through this vital maritime corridor,” warning of “imminent and unprecedented impacts, including food and medicine shortages, felt by the entire international community, particularly by the most vulnerable populations.”

The Greek statement also condemned “any unjustified attack on international merchant shipping, which endangers the safety of innocent seafarers, in violation of international law,” stressing that “seafarers’ lives and safe commercial navigation must be respected in all circumstances.”

At the same time, he expressed regret that “despite intensive consultations and a common understanding of the importance of maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, the Security Council failed to reach consensus and adopt a resolution.”

In conclusion, Greece welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, called for “an urgent cessation of hostilities in Lebanon as well” and praised regional partners for their contribution to mediation efforts, stressing that “the de-escalation of hostilities and a complete cessation of attacks in the region are necessary to create the necessary conditions for diplomatic engagement towards a viable and lasting peaceful solution”.