Speaking at U.N. headquarters alongside diplomats from Gulf states and the United States, Alwasil urged support for a draft Security Council resolution demanding Iran halt attacks and remove obstacles affecting maritime traffic through the strait.“The Strait of Hormuz remains a vital artery of global trade and any disruption to its security is a matter of serious international concern,” Alwasil said.

He said the proposed resolution sought immediate international measures to “de-escalate tensions, ensure the free and safe flow of trade and humanitarian assistance, restore stability to global markets, and protect affected populations.”Alwasil warned that disruptions to shipping routes were affecting energy markets and delaying deliveries of food, medical supplies and humanitarian goods, particularly for import-dependent countries.

The Saudi envoy appeared alongside representatives from Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, as well as Mike Waltz, who said freedom of navigation was central to global economic stability.

“We believe in some basic fundamental principles, namely the freedom of navigation for the entire world’s economies,” Waltz told reporters. “That’s what’s at stake here, nothing less than a cornerstone of worldwide stability and commerce.”Diplomatic sources said Russia, a permanent member of the Security Council and a close Iranian ally, warned it was prepared to veto the resolution.

Moscow and Beijing previously abstained on a March resolution condemning Iranian attacks on Gulf states and criticizing restrictions on shipping through Hormuz.

According to diplomats, the latest U.S.-Bahrain draft resolution calls on Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, disclose the locations of naval mines, refrain from imposing transit tolls and allow the establishment of humanitarian shipping corridors for fertilizer and other essential cargo.

The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments and around one-third of global fertilizer trade, making it one of the world’s most strategically significant maritime chokepoints.

Commercial shipping traffic through the waterway has been heavily disrupted since conflict erupted on Feb. 28 following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. Regional instability has since fueled concerns over energy supplies, commodity prices and global food security.

In early April, Russia and China vetoed another Security Council proposal that would have encouraged coordinated international efforts to secure maritime navigation through the strait.

The live-fire drill, part of the annual “Balikatan” exercises, was conducted about 75 km off the coast of Paoay in northern Philippines. Philippine military officials said two missile volleys hit the target ship, the BRP Quezon, within six minutes of launch.

Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro observed the exercise on site, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. monitored the operation via live feed from Manila, according to the Philippine government.

The exercise coincided with ongoing talks between Tokyo and Manila on a potential transfer of defense equipment, following Japan’s decision to ease restrictions on military exports. Discussions include the possible provision of Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 aircraft to the Philippines, Koizumi said.

In a statement, the Philippine military said the drill demonstrated coordinated maritime strike capabilities among allied forces and underscored efforts to enhance interoperability and regional security, particularly in safeguarding freedom of navigation.

The Type 88 missile system, designed for coastal defense, was deployed as part of broader efforts to deter maritime threats in contested waters.More than 17,000 troops are participating in this year’s Balikatan exercises, including approximately 10,000 from the United States and around 1,400 from Japan.

Several countries, including Australia, Canada, France and New Zealand, are taking part as active participants for the first time, reflecting expanding defense cooperation.

Earlier in the exercises, US and Philippine forces deployed the NMESIS anti-ship missile system in Batanes province near Taiwan, amid rising regional tensions linked to competing territorial claims.

China has repeatedly criticized such joint drills, saying they escalate tensions in the region.

The German navy vessel Fulda is being positioned to support a potential multinational operation aimed at protecting maritime navigation through the strategically vital waterway, where tensions surged after Iran effectively disrupted shipping routes during the recent war.

A defense ministry spokeswoman said the deployment was intended to make a “significant and visible contribution” to an international coalition seeking to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy transit corridors.

Several countries have indicated readiness to participate in what officials have described as a “neutral” maritime security mission following the end of hostilities between the United States and Iran.The United States said last week it had begun de-mining operations in coordination with Tehran, although Iranian authorities have not publicly confirmed such cooperation.

The minesweeper Fulda, a specialized vessel designed to detect and neutralize naval mines, will be stationed with a crew of around 45 personnel, the spokeswoman said.Any eventual deployment into the Strait of Hormuz itself would depend on what Berlin described as a lasting cessation of hostilities and formal approval from Germany’s Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, which is required for overseas military operations.

The conflict in Iran began on Feb. 28 with air strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, sharply escalating regional tensions and raising fears over global energy supply disruptions.In response, Iran’s military moved to effectively close the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments normally pass, triggering a spike in international crude prices and renewed concerns over shipping security.

The narrow maritime passage linking the Persian Gulf to global markets remains one of the most strategically sensitive chokepoints in world trade, particularly for Europe and Asia’s energy imports.

Diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region have since intensified, with prospects for renewed negotiations between Washington and Tehran emerging this weekend in Pakistan, where both sides have reportedly sent envoys to Islamabad for indirect talks on ending the conflict.

Germany’s move reflects broader European efforts to restore stability in Gulf shipping lanes and prevent renewed disruption to commercial traffic after weeks of heightened military confrontation.

The visit by Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling to Taiping Island marks the first ministerial trip to the outpost in seven years, Taiwan’s Central News Agency reported. The island is part of the disputed Spratly Islands, claimed by Taiwan, China, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Taiwan’s coast guard said the exercises included humanitarian rescue drills, medical evacuation simulations, and pollution response operations. In one scenario, armed special forces practiced boarding a cargo vessel that had refused to respond to communications.

Authorities said the vessel was escorted to Taiping Island for inspection after it was deemed to have entered waters under Taiwan’s jurisdiction.Video released by the coast guard showed armed personnel entering a ship’s control room while instructing crew members to comply with inspection procedures.

The drills underscore Taiwan’s efforts to assert its presence in the contested maritime region, where overlapping territorial claims have heightened tensions for years.China claims most of the South China Sea and has built extensive artificial islands and military installations in the region, raising concerns among regional states and the United States.

Beijing maintains that its construction and deployments are within its sovereign rights.Taiwan also maintains control over other features in the region, including the Pratas Islands in the northern South China Sea, while Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels regularly operate near Taiwan in what Taipei describes as pressure tactics.

Taiping Island has infrastructure capable of supporting military resupply flights and a port upgraded in 2023 to accommodate larger patrol vessels, though it remains lightly defended compared to nearby Chinese-held installations.

The South China Sea remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, carrying trillions of dollars in annual trade and containing key fishing grounds and potential energy resources, making it a persistent flashpoint for regional and global powers.

The meeting at the Permanent Joint Headquarters in northwest London is intended to advance operational planning for reopening the strategic waterway when conditions permit, following what officials described as progress at international discussions held in Paris last week.

“The task today and tomorrow is to translate diplomatic consensus into a joint plan to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Strait and support a lasting ceasefire,” Defense Minister John Healey said in a statement.

The London conference follows talks co-chaired in Paris by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron that brought together representatives from more than 40 countries to address security in the strait, a critical global shipping route.

British and French officials have emphasized that the proposed multinational force would be defensive in nature and deployed only after a durable peace agreement is reached in the region.The United States and Iran, the principal parties to the ongoing conflict, did not participate in the Paris discussions.

A two-week ceasefire between the two countries was due to expire at midnight GMT on Tuesday, but US President Donald Trump said shortly before the deadline that it would be extended to allow further negotiations.

Both Washington and Tehran have accused each other of violating the truce, while the United States has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports.Downing Street had earlier indicated that a military planning summit would take place this week without providing further details

The Japanese destroyer sailed through the strait from early morning to late afternoon, according to a statement by a Chinese military spokesperson, who said naval and air forces were deployed to observe the vessel throughout its passage.

Japan’s Self-Defense Forces declined to comment on the transit. The passage comes against the backdrop of heightened regional tensions over Taiwan, which claims as its territory despite opposition from ’s government.

Beijing considers the Taiwan issue a core national interest and frequently characterizes it as a “red line” in diplomatic relations. It also asserts sovereignty over the strait, a key international shipping route, and has responded strongly to foreign naval movements in the area.

China’s foreign ministry spokesperson said at a press briefing that the transit represented a “display of force” and accused Japan of compounding earlier tensions with what he described as “mistakes upon mistakes.” He added that China had lodged formal diplomatic protests with Tokyo.

Relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent months, particularly after remarks by Japanese Prime Minister suggesting that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a Japanese military response.

China’s military had previously tracked a foreign naval transit through the strait in February, when an Australian warship sailed the same route, according to state-backed media reports. The latest incident underscores persistent friction over freedom of navigation and sovereignty claims in one of Asia’s most strategically sensitive waterways.

The series of meetings underscored a shared commitment to dialogue, stability, and collective security in a rapidly changing global environment.

In his discussions with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, Secretary Hegseth reaffirmed the importance of maintaining open communication and avoiding misunderstandings in the region.

He emphasized that the United States seeks balance and stability in the Indo-Pacific while encouraging transparency and cooperation among regional powers.

The meeting was seen as a constructive engagement aimed at easing tensions and exploring opportunities for collaboration on shared challenges such as maritime safety and crisis prevention.

One of the major highlights of the summit was the signing of a landmark 10-year defense cooperation framework between the United States and India.

The agreement, finalized by Secretary Hegseth and India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, was hailed as a cornerstone for regional peace and deterrence.

“This partnership is a roadmap for deeper collaboration and mutual trust between our two great democracies,” Hegseth said after the signing. Both sides expressed optimism about future defense projects, technology sharing, and joint military training programs.

The agreement comes at a crucial time when both nations are seeking to enhance strategic ties amid evolving global dynamics. Despite past trade frictions, the renewed defense partnership highlights a forward-looking approach based on mutual respect and shared values of democracy, security, and development.

During his visit, Secretary Hegseth also met with Malaysia’s Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin to discuss maritime security and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in the region’s vital waterways and ensuring that international law is upheld.

The joint statement released after the meeting reaffirmed a mutual commitment to protecting sovereignty, preventing conflicts, and promoting cooperation among Southeast Asian nations.

Malaysia, along with other ASEAN members, has voiced concerns over rising maritime tensions. The discussion reinforced the view that dialogue and peaceful resolution are the best paths forward.

“The South China Sea must remain a region of peace, stability, and cooperation,” said Minister Nordin. “By working together, we can ensure that future generations inherit a safe and prosperous region.”

In addition to China and India, Secretary Hegseth planned meetings with defense ministers from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand to further deepen ties and discuss joint exercises and humanitarian assistance initiatives.

Representatives from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Russia also attended the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting, signaling the region’s growing importance on the global stage.

The summit took place amid renewed calls for nuclear disarmament and peacebuilding efforts. ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn reiterated the organization’s dedication to maintaining Southeast Asia as a nuclear-free zone, highlighting the region’s long-standing commitment to non-proliferation and peace.

On the broader security front, U.S. President Donald Trump also addressed ASEAN leaders virtually, assuring them of Washington’s unwavering support.

“The United States stands with you 100 percent,” he said, pledging long-term partnership and cooperation to promote shared security and prosperity.

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi echoed this sentiment, expressing her country’s determination to strengthen defense capabilities and contribute to regional stability.

The partnership between the U.S. and Japan continues to serve as a pillar of peace in the Indo-Pacific, especially as both countries work together to address emerging challenges.

As the summit concluded, there was a clear sense of optimism and unity among the participants. Through open dialogue, strategic partnerships, and mutual respect, the leaders reaffirmed their collective vision for a peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific.

The meetings in Kuala Lumpur underscored that collaboration, not confrontation, is the path to sustainable peace. With nations coming together under shared goals of security and development, the region is moving toward a future defined by cooperation, mutual trust, and lasting stability.