LONDON – Seven major world powers released a coordinated statement Thursday denouncing Iran’s military actions in the Strait of Hormuz and announcing their willingness to participate in efforts to protect commercial shipping in the vital waterway.
The declaration from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan and Canada represents a unified international response to escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf region.
“We condemn in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces,” the nations stated.
The coalition expressed alarm over the deteriorating situation and demanded Iran halt its aggressive tactics immediately. “We call on Iran to cease immediately its threats, laying of mines, drone and missile attacks and other attempts to block the Strait to commercial shipping, and to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817,” the statement read.
The countries emphasized that open sea lanes represent a cornerstone of international maritime law, referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Officials warned that Iran’s interference will impact populations worldwide, particularly those in vulnerable regions. “The effects of Iran’s actions will be felt by people in all parts of the world, especially the most vulnerable,” according to the joint declaration.
The nations characterized Iran’s disruption of international commerce and global energy supply chains as a direct challenge to worldwide peace and stability, citing UN Security Council Resolution 2817. They demanded an immediate halt to strikes against civilian energy infrastructure.
“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait. We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning,” the statement indicated.
To address energy market volatility, the countries praised the International Energy Agency’s authorization of coordinated strategic petroleum reserve releases. They pledged additional market stabilization measures, including collaboration with oil-producing nations to boost production levels.
The coalition also committed to supporting nations most affected by the crisis through United Nations channels and International Financial Institutions.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that maritime security and navigation freedom serve all countries’ interests, calling on every nation to honor international law and maintain fundamental principles of global prosperity and security.
