Hormuz Crisis
G7 allies condemn Iran over Strait of Hormuz disruptions, warn of global energy fallout
The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan and Canada, in a joint statement on March 19, denounced what they described as Iran’s “de facto closure” of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade.
“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 leaders said.
The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where Iran’s missile, drone and maritime actions have severely disrupted shipping routes and energy supplies.
As reported by Reuters, the disruption has raised alarm among major economies over its impact on global markets and vulnerable populations.
The leaders urged Tehran to immediately halt its actions, including laying mines and launching attacks on commercial vessels.
“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,” the statement said, also calling for compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
They stressed that freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle under international law, warning that interference with maritime trade and energy flows constitutes a threat to international peace and security.
The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly a fifth of global oil supply, and recent hostilities have led to a sharp decline in shipping traffic and a surge in energy prices.
The leaders also welcomed coordinated action by the International Energy Agency to release strategic oil reserves, describing it as a key step to stabilise global markets.
They said additional measures, including working with oil-producing nations to boost output, are under consideration.
“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait,” the statement said, signalling openness to joint maritime security initiatives.
According to media reports, several countries are already engaged in preparatory planning to safeguard shipping routes and prevent further disruptions.
The leaders further pledged support for countries most affected by the crisis, including through the United Nations and international financial institutions.
The joint statement underscores growing international concern that continued escalation could deepen economic shocks, disrupt global energy supplies and heighten geopolitical instability.
“Maritime security and freedom of navigation benefit all countries,” the leaders said, calling on all states to uphold international law and avoid further escalation.
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