Weaponising Strait of Hormuz Risks Global Economic Stability: Sultan Al Jaber

Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the UAE, has warned that weaponising the Strait of Hormuz constitutes an act of economic terrorism with repercussions that extend far beyond energy markets. He made these remarks during his address at CERAWeek in Houston, Texas, emphasizing the critical importance of this strategic waterway.

Economic Implications of Threats to the Strait

Dr. Al Jaber, who also serves as the Managing Director and Group CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), highlighted the far-reaching consequences of threats to the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that when this vital corridor is endangered, the human cost is significant, impacting factories, farms, and families globally.

He stated, “Energy security is not just a slogan; it’s the difference between lights on and lights off.” The Strait of Hormuz, measuring just 21 miles in width, facilitates the transit of approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily, accounting for nearly a fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply. Furthermore, it is crucial for over a third of global fertiliser production and nearly a quarter of petrochemicals, underscoring its role as a lifeline for the global economy.

Rising Oil Prices and Global Consequences

Dr. Al Jaber pointed out that recent tensions have already led to a 50% increase in oil prices within a mere three weeks, exacerbating living costs for those least able to bear them and hindering economic growth worldwide. He asserted that weaponising the Strait of Hormuz is not merely an act of aggression against a single nation but represents economic terrorism against all nations.

He emphasized that no country should be permitted to hold the Strait hostage, stating, “This is not a supply issue. It is a security issue, and it has only one durable answer: keeping the Strait open.”

UAE’s Preparedness and Resilience

The Minister noted that the UAE has not sought conflict but has taken every precaution to avert it. He remarked, “When the moment came, we were ready. Our defences have been tested. Our resilience has been tested. Our character has been tested. And we withstood.”

Dr. Al Jaber elaborated on the extraordinary measures ADNOC is implementing to ensure the safety of its personnel and the continuity of service to customers and stakeholders. He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to defending its nation and way of life, stating that the current crisis has reinforced their pragmatic approach to progress.

Strategic Partnerships and Investments

Dr. Al Jaber attributed the UAE and ADNOC’s resilience to years of investment in infrastructure and strategic partnerships. He stated, “For the UAE, partnership is not just something we do. It is who we are.” He highlighted the enduring relationship with partners, including the United States, noting that ADNOC, XRG, and Masdar have invested over $85 billion in U.S. energy assets, supporting power generation and job creation across 19 states.

He mentioned that the UAE is actively exploring opportunities throughout the energy value chain and is keen to expand investments in hard infrastructure, including storage and liquefaction facilities.

Future Outlook and Call for Collaboration

Looking ahead, Dr. Al Jaber remarked that the current crisis has exposed two contrasting visions: one that seeks to spread instability and another that promotes prosperity. He underscored the UAE’s long-standing commitment to stability and reliability in energy production.

He invited energy leaders to attend the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) in November, framing the recent events as a pivotal moment. “You can choose to be an architect of stability or a spectator to volatility,” he stated, urging collaboration over conflict.

CERAWeek, taking place from March 23-27, convenes leading figures in the energy sector, while ADIPEC is scheduled for November 2-5 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi.

Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae

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Published on 2026-03-23 19:37:00 • By the Editorial Desk