In a joint statement, leading European nations and Japan agreed to join “appropriate efforts” to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and said that they would take steps to stabilise energy markets.
Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan condemned the attacks by Iran in the statement and urged it to halt its actions 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,” the leaders said in a joint statement issued by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office.
NEW: The UK alongside France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan expresses readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz 👇 https://t.co/KeCAbEbdWy pic.twitter.com/uqtRF394En
— British Embassy Washington (@UKinUSA) March 19, 2026
“Such interference with international shipping and the disruption of global energy supply chains constitute a threat to international peace and security,” they said.
As the Iran war enters its 20th day, the strait remains effectively closed.
“Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law,” the leaders stated. “The effects of Iran’s actions will be felt by people in all parts of the world, especially the most vulnerable.”
The statement shows that concern is growing regarding Iran’s retaliatory strikes in response to US-Israeli attacks. Moreover, oil and gas facilities have been damaged by strikes from both sides, driving oil and gas prices higher.
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