21.03.2026 20:52
A group of 22 countries, mostly from Europe, issued a joint statement committing to contribute to "appropriate efforts" to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
As tensions rise in the Middle East due to the US-Israel attacks on Iran and the retaliations from the Tehran administration, a statement was made regarding the security in the Strait of Hormuz by 22 countries, mostly European nations.
COMMITMENT TO "CONTRIBUTE" FROM 22 COUNTRIES TO KEEP THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ OPEN
The leaders of the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates (UAE), France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Japan, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, Denmark, Latvia, Slovenia, Estonia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Czech Republic, Romania, Bahrain, Lithuania, and Australia announced their intention to contribute to efforts to ensure safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz through a joint statement. The joint statement said, "We strongly condemn Iran's attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas facilities, and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces."
CALL FOR "IMMEDIATE END TO THREATS" TO IRAN
The statement expressed, "We express our deep concern over the escalating conflict and call on Iran to immediately cease its threats, mine-laying activities, drone (UAV) and missile attacks, and other threats aimed at closing the Strait of Hormuz."
The statement noted that interventions in international maritime transport and disruptions to global energy supply chains pose a threat to international peace and security, stating, "The effects of Iran's actions will be felt by people around the world, especially the most vulnerable groups."
The statement included, "We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait. We welcome the commitment of the countries participating in the preparatory planning."
"WE WILL TAKE OTHER STEPS..."
The statement supported the International Energy Agency's (IEA) decision to coordinate the release of strategic oil reserves into the market, stating, "We will take other steps, including working with certain producing countries to increase production to stabilize energy markets. We will also work to provide assistance to the most affected countries through the United Nations (UN) and international financial institutions. Maritime security and freedom of navigation are in the interest of all countries. We call on all countries to respect international law and uphold the fundamental principles of international welfare and security."