Madame President,

Distinguished Delegates,

Albania aligns with the statement of the European Union and, in its national capacity, wishes to make the following additional remarks.

Freedom of navigation and maritime security are the lifelines of global peace, stability, and prosperity. Any attempt to undermine them is not merely a regional concern, it is a direct challenge to the international order we are all bound to uphold.

The blocking of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, coupled with its attacks against neighboring countries, represents a grave and unacceptable escalation. These actions endanger one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors, threatening global energy supplies, economic stability, and the security of nations far beyond the region.

Let us be clear: the consequences of inaction will not be confined. They will ripple across continents, affecting economies, markets, and the daily lives of millions.

In this context, we strongly support Bahrain’s initiative to table a draft resolution aimed at ensuring international engagement to safeguard transit passage and prevent any disruption to the free flow of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This is not only a necessary step, but also an urgent one.

We commend the transparent and inclusive process through which this draft was discussed. It is therefore deeply regrettable that consensus was not achieved due to veto of two permanent members. At a moment when unity is not just desirable but indispensable, such divisions weaken the credibility of this Council and hinder our collective responsibility.

We reaffirm unequivocally that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway. All ships and aircraft enjoy the right of transit passage under international law, this is not negotiable.

We call on the Security Council to act decisively, without delay, to uphold freedom of navigation and ensure the security of maritime routes.

The world is watching, and it expects leadership.

Madame President,

From the outset, Albania has stood firmly behind efforts led by the United States to bring the conflict in the Middle East to an end. We commend the constructive role played by the Gulf Cooperation Council in advancing dialogue and stability. The ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran is an encouraging development and we urge all parties to build on this progress through continued dialogue, restraint, and respect for international law. We commend Pakistan and other regional actors for their important role in facilitating this positive development.

In conclusion, Albania stands resolute in its commitment to international cooperation, multilateralism, and the UN Charter. We call on all nations that value peace to rise to this responsibility, as global challenges can only be met through our collective resolve.

Thank you.