The United Arab Emirates’ Foreign Ministry has welcomed a decision by the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) legal committee, which affirms the right of transit through the Strait of Hormuz and condemns Iran’s closure of it.

According to a statement, the IMO Legal Committee affirmed that Iran’s actions violate the right of innocent passage through the Strait, which cannot be obstructed.

“The Committee called on Iran to cease its attacks, remove any naval mines it may have laid in and around the Strait of Hormuz, and comply with its obligations under international law, particularly ensuring the unimpeded passage of ships through the Strait,” the UAE’s statement reads.