Arsenio Dominguez

"The deal to help them marked a decisive step towards restoring maritime security and bringing to an end the unacceptable attacks against civilian shipping."

"I have always reiterated that the safety of the seafarers remains paramount. Therefore, to ensure a coordinated approach and navigational safety, the evacuation plan will be paused until further clarity is obtained."

"I am already working with the relevant parties to implement an appropriate mechanism to ensure the safe transit of ships through the strait."

"What we cannot have is this different, or parallel, approach where another country introduces a different mechanism that is not in line with international practice."

"International straits in accordance [with] international law are actually for the use of everyone and that's why no toll restrictions should be imposed."

"Countries do not have the right to introduce tools or payments or charges on these straits."

"Any introduction of tolls is something that is against international law."

"That's a contradiction. Right to safe passage means that you don’t have to pay for a service."

"An additional blockade just doesn't really help anything in finding a solution to the conflict."

"This principle of introducing a toll on international navigation is against the International Law of the Sea and the customary law."