Việtnam Urges Ceasefire, Maritime Security and Dialogue at UN General Assembly Amid Middle East Tensions
New York, The Gulf Observer: Vietnam has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, enhanced maritime security, and renewed diplomatic dialogue to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing the need for a coordinated and effective international response.
The appeal was made during a plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly held Thursday at UN Headquarters in New York. The session followed the failure of the United Nations Security Council to adopt a draft resolution on safeguarding maritime security and ensuring safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz on April 7.
The meeting saw broad participation from UN member states, with most of the 66 speakers expressing serious concern over the prolonged conflict in the Middle East and rising instability in the Strait of Hormuz. Many delegates voiced disappointment over the Security Council’s inability to take decisive action to halt hostilities, prevent further escalation, and guarantee the security and freedom of navigation along vital global shipping routes.
Addressing the session, Ambassador Đỗ Hùng Việt, Head of Việt Nam’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, reaffirmed the country’s alignment with the collective position of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, as reflected in recent ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ statements.
He expressed deep concern over ongoing tensions, particularly developments in the Strait of Hormuz, noting their impact in causing casualties, disrupting global trade and energy supply chains, and adversely affecting the global economy—especially developing nations.
Ambassador Việt reiterated Việt Nam’s opposition to military actions against sovereign states, particularly those not directly involved in the conflict. He stressed the obligation to protect civilians and critical infrastructure in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions, including Security Council Resolution 2573.
Calling for restraint, he urged all parties to avoid actions that could further escalate tensions and to refrain from the threat or use of force. He emphasized that disputes must be resolved through peaceful means in line with international law and the UN Charter.
The Vietnamese envoy also underscored the importance of ensuring maritime safety and freedom of navigation and overflight, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Highlighting diplomacy as the only sustainable path to peace, Ambassador Việt welcomed the temporary ceasefire agreement and urged all sides to seize the opportunity to advance dialogue and pursue long-term solutions. He also expressed support for ongoing international efforts aimed at maintaining communication channels and facilitating diplomatic engagement.
The session was convened under UN General Assembly Resolution 76/262, which mandates automatic discussions within 10 working days following a veto in the Security Council.
