More than 20 countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan, have condemned Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz. In a joint statement, the leaders have warned that Iran’s actions could impact people worldwide, “especially the most vulnerable." They have expressed readiness to ensure safe passage through the strait amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

What Does The Statement Say?

The statement strongly criticised Iran’s attacks on unarmed commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure in the Persian Gulf. The countries have called for an immediate halt to hostilities targeting oil and gas installations, emphasising that the blockade threatens regional stability and global energy security. “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 statement read.

The countries also expressed their “readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait". They welcomed the commitment of nations already engaged in preparatory planning, highlighting the importance of action to prevent disruptions to energy supplies.

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The development comes after United States President Donald Trump on Saturday stated that the Strait of Hormuz would have to be safeguarded by other nations that rely on it for shipping. He clarified that since the US doesn't rely on it; it would not take a role in guarding the waterway. The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not! If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated," he wrote on Truth Social.

The Strait of Hormuz has become a central point in the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The waterway has been blocked by Iran, allowing only some ships to pass through it. 

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