At a recent session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was unable to rally sufficient backing from member states to push through a resolution or statement targeting Iran. The effort aimed to increase diplomatic pressure on Tehran amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region.
According to diplomatic sources, the UAE proposed a text criticizing Iran's maritime activities, alleging violations of international law and threats to maritime security. However, the proposal failed to garner the necessary support, notably from major maritime powers and other Arab nations in the region.
The outcome is seen as a diplomatic blow for the UAE, which had sought to forge a united front against Iranian actions in international waters. In contrast, Iran welcomed the lack of consensus at the IMO, viewing it as an endorsement of its stance that the UAE's accusations were baseless.
The episode underscores deep divisions among Gulf states over how to address Iran, as well as the challenges of building consensus in multilateral forums. Analysts suggest the failure may prompt the UAE to reassess its diplomatic strategy toward Iran in the coming period.
