UNSC open debate on the Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain
Statement by The Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP Assistant Minister for Immigration and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
27 April 2026
Thank you, President.
This debate comes at a critical time for global maritime security.
Navigational rights and freedoms matter for all states and must be respected in accordance with international law.
The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz – and Iran’s threats and indiscriminate attacks on countries in the region, including against commercial vessels – have caused unprecedented global shocks and placed innocent civilians, including seafarers, at serious risk.
President,
Global maritime security is directly linked to global economic stability.
All states rely on open sea lanes and waterways for supply chain security.
The disruption to maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz is causing unprecedented shocks to global energy, fertiliser and petrochemical supplies.
A prolonged disruption will have significant and far-reaching human and economic consequences.
Around 80 per cent of oil and oil product exports transiting the Strait of Hormuz were Asia-bound, making the Indo-Pacific highly susceptible to energy supply disruptions.
Like Australia, the Pacific imports virtually all its fuel.
Pacific island countries are acutely vulnerable
to oil price fluctuations, as they rely on fuel imports for transport and electricity. Shortages threaten essential services and food security.
The uncertain trajectory of the conflict – and its impacts on international shipping – make the scale and duration of this economic shock difficult to predict. But the risks are severe and growing.
President,
Australia reiterates its call for all states to uphold navigational rights and freedoms, lawful use of and activities on the sea, and the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in accordance with international law, particularly UNCLOS.
We reaffirm our strong support for the work of the International Maritime Organisation and commend its efforts to help safeguard stranded civilian seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz.
Coordinated diplomatic engagement is essential. Australia will continue to support UN and international diplomatic efforts to ensure safe and unhindered maritime transit and to safeguard seafarers.
President,
We renew our calls on Iran to act in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
Navigational rights and freedoms should never be weaponised – Australia continues to call for the unconditional, unrestricted, and immediate re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Finally, we repeat our call for the ceasefire to be maintained, for talks to resume, and for an end to the conflict.
Thank you.