NEW DELHI, INDIA — UAE Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Jamal Alshaali has raised serious concerns over restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, warning of significant implications for global energy flows and countries like India.
Speaking in Delhi, the envoy said that the Strait is no longer operating under conditions of free navigation, alleging that access is being controlled and ships are required to obtain permission for transit. He further claimed that tolls exceeding $2 million per vessel are being imposed, describing the situation as a challenge not only for the UAE but also for India and the global economy.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the Strait, Alshaali noted that nearly one-fifth of the world’s energy supplies pass through this route daily. For India, he подчеркнул, the impact is particularly significant as it is one of the world’s largest crude oil importers, with a substantial portion of its oil and LPG supplies moving through this corridor.
Despite the challenges, the ambassador emphasized that both countries were prepared for such disruptions. He pointed out that cargo shipments are being rerouted to UAE ports such as Fujairah, located outside the Strait, ensuring continuity in supply chains.
He also highlighted the strength of India-UAE energy ties, referring to a $3 billion LNG supply agreement signed earlier this year, and reiterated the shared goal of achieving $200 billion in bilateral trade by 2032. According to him, the partnership is built on a resilient and diversified framework capable of withstanding geopolitical shocks.
On the welfare of Indian nationals, Alshaali said that around four million Indians living in the UAE are considered an integral part of the country’s social fabric. He assured that their safety is treated with the same priority as that of UAE citizens, with both governments maintaining close coordination and contingency plans in place.
The envoy also addressed the UAE’s position on the ongoing tensions in West Asia, stating that the country did not seek conflict and had made it clear that its territory would not be used for attacks against Iran. He alleged that this understanding was violated and stressed that the UAE continues to advocate for stability and dialogue.
He added that any long-term resolution must address key issues including Iran’s nuclear program, missile capabilities, and regional proxies, along with ensuring the unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The UAE, he said, is closely monitoring the evolving situation, including the ceasefire dynamics involving the United States and Iran, while seeking clarity to ensure adherence to a complete halt in hostilities.
The ambassador’s remarks underscore growing concerns over energy security and geopolitical stability, while reaffirming the resilience of India-UAE relations amid ongoing regional challenges.
