Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt has expressed deep concern over recent developments related to maritime boundary coordinates and maps submitted to the United Nations concerning the waters between the State of Kuwait and the Republic of Iraq, calling for strict adherence to international law and renewed dialogue between the two neighboring countries.
In an official statement, Cairo said it is closely and anxiously monitoring the issue surrounding lists of geographical coordinates and an accompanying map deposited with the United Nations that pertain to maritime areas between Kuwait and Iraq. Egypt underscored the importance of respecting the rules and principles of international law, including the provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and complying with existing understandings between the two states.
The statement comes amid heightened regional tensions and what Egyptian officials described as a particularly sensitive and delicate moment for the Middle East. Against a backdrop of significant geopolitical challenges and escalating crises across the region, Cairo stressed that unity and solidarity among Arab states are more critical than ever.
Egypt emphasized that reason and wisdom must prevail, pointing to the deep historical ties and fraternal relations binding Arab nations. It noted that the current developments demand restraint and constructive engagement, especially given the broader instability affecting the region.
At the core of Egypt’s position is a firm call to respect Kuwait’s sovereignty and the unity and territorial integrity of its lands, including its maritime boundaries. Cairo stressed the necessity of ensuring that there is no encroachment or overlap affecting Kuwait’s recognized maritime limits. At the same time, Egypt expressed full readiness to provide support to both Kuwait and Iraq in order to help bridge differences and facilitate mutually agreed understandings consistent with international legal frameworks.
Maritime boundary disputes in the Gulf region have historically been sensitive due to their implications for territorial sovereignty, access to strategic waterways, and control over potential energy resources. The waters between Kuwait and Iraq are of particular significance, given their proximity to vital shipping lanes and oil infrastructure in the northern Gulf.
While the statement did not detail the specific points of contention, such disputes typically revolve around the interpretation of maritime delimitation principles under international law, including baselines, exclusive economic zones, and continental shelf rights. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea provides mechanisms and legal standards for resolving such issues, emphasizing equitable solutions achieved through negotiation.
Egypt’s intervention reflects its broader diplomatic posture of supporting Arab consensus and de-escalation during periods of regional strain. Cairo has consistently positioned itself as an advocate for political solutions grounded in dialogue and legal norms, particularly in disputes involving neighboring Arab states.
In its concluding remarks, Egypt expressed confidence in the ability of Kuwait and Iraq to address the matter in a spirit of mutual understanding, good neighborliness, and shared historical bonds between their peoples. It voiced hope that any differences would be resolved in a manner that safeguards the interests of both nations while contributing to the preservation of regional stability.
As diplomatic channels remain open, Egypt’s message signals a clear preference for negotiated settlement and legal clarity, reinforcing the broader call for calm and cooperation at a time when the Middle East can ill afford further tensions.
