Türkiye Calls for Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza to Ensure Freedom of Navigation in Red Sea
New York, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye on Monday emphasized that a permanent ceasefire in Gaza is crucial to securing freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, warning that Israel’s actions are fueling instability across the region.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, Türkiye’s Deputy UN Envoy Asli Güven highlighted her country’s strong commitment to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and open sea lines of communication.
“Piracy, terrorism, and armed robbery pose serious threats to seafarers, international trade, food and energy security, and the prosperity of all nations,” Güven said. She added that ongoing regional conflicts further undermine maritime safety.
“We are closely monitoring developments in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, where rising tensions confirm our warnings that Israeli aggression in Gaza could spill over, threatening navigation,” she noted, stressing that “a permanent ceasefire in Gaza is essential to securing freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.”
Addressing other maritime challenges, Güven pointed to irregular migration and migrant smuggling, underscoring Türkiye’s pivotal role along Eastern Mediterranean migration routes.
She further emphasized Türkiye’s hosting of one of the world’s largest refugee populations and its commitment to conducting robust maritime surveillance and search and rescue operations in accordance with humanitarian principles.
On the issue of hydrocarbon resources, Güven urged that exploitation must fully respect the legitimate rights of all relevant peoples and parties. She called on stakeholders to avoid “maximalist positions” to promote regional stability and cooperation.
