Gulf Nations Welcome Ceasefire While Emphasizing Freedom of Navigation in Strait of Hormuz

Kathmandu. Gulf nations have welcomed the ceasefire between Iran and Lebanon. However, these nations have emphasized the need for the free movement of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Nawaf Al-Thani, former director of Qatar's defense intelligence operations, speaking on the BBC's 'Today' program, stated that the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a significant moment. However, he noted that it is too early to call this complete progress.

According to Al-Thani, Gulf nations have maintained a clear stance that there must be unhindered movement of ships in the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the region should be returned to the state it was in before the war began.
While many countries in the Gulf region have viewed the ceasefire move positively, he expressed dissatisfaction that Gulf nations have not been included in the ongoing talks between the United States and Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz is considered a strategically vital route for global oil trade.