Foreign ministry fears adverse impacts on security in the Gulf

Attacks on oil establishments in the Gulf will have adverse impacts on the overall security in that region, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said, expressing deep concern over the matter. 

In a statement yesterday, it said Bangladesh has observed with deep concern the secret drone attacks on the oil pumping stations in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

Equally disconcerting is the news of attacks on the Saudi Arabian and Emirati oil tankers in the UAE territory, said the foreign ministry following reports of sabotage of oil tankers and ships last week amid tensions between the US and Iran.

Saudi Arabia said two of its oil tankers were attacked while sailing towards the Persian Gulf last week, adding to regional tension, according to international media.

The Saudi tankers were damaged in “a sabotage attack” off the United Arab Emirates coast, state-run Saudi Press Agency reported. The vessels were approaching the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most important chokepoint for oil shipments.

Also, the UAE foreign ministry reported an attack on four commercial ships near its territorial waters. No one has claimed responsibility.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statement said:

“Bangladesh is of the view that such unprovoked acts will have an adverse impact on the overall security situation in the region.”

Bangladesh renounces such unilateral act of provocation and remains steadfastly committed to maintaining peace and security, the statement added.

Middle East is Bangladesh’s largest overseas labour market and major source of oil.