Albudaiwi: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi has announced that GCC countries have taken swift measures to protect supply chains by activating alternative logistics corridors. These corridors redirect shipments from Arabian Gulf ports to alternative ports on the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea, ensuring the continued flow of supplies to meet international demand for energy and fertilizers amidst current challenges.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Albudaiwi delivered this information during a videoconference meeting discussing a new political initiative titled 'Supporting Food Security and Access to Fertilizers.' The meeting included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Antonio Tajani, and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia, Gordan Grlic Radman. Albudaiwi highlighted that the meeting occurred at a critical time due to Iranian attacks on GCC countries and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have highlighted the link between regional security and global food security challenges.
Albudaiwi reported that since February 28, 2026, Iran and its regional proxies have launched around 7,000 missile and drone attacks against GCC countries, severely impacting civilian infrastructure and energy facilities. These attacks have destabilized global energy markets and supply chains, particularly affecting food commodities and agricultural inputs like chemical fertilizers. He condemned these actions as violations of international law and criticized Iran for disregarding United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, which called for an end to such hostilities.
He emphasized that the ramifications of disrupted maritime navigation extend globally, leading to shortages in oil, gas, and petrochemicals, including agricultural fertilizers. This situation poses a direct threat to global food security, disproportionately affecting developing nations already burdened by inflation and debt. Albudaiwi urged collective action to stabilize prices and ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential goods.
The GCC secretary-general underscored the importance of practical initiatives to improve regional connectivity and global stability, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve crises. He called on Iran to respect the sovereignty of neighboring states and to cease interference in GCC countries' affairs. Albudaiwi also urged for measures ensuring the security and stability of supply chains and the continuity of international maritime navigation.
He concluded by stressing the need for protecting maritime corridors, particularly the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb, to maintain regional security as a cornerstone of international peace. He advocated adherence to international law and the collective efforts of the international community to safeguard energy security, supply chains, and navigation freedoms according to relevant treaties and resolutions.
