Israel-Iran War: UK, Germany, others condemn Iran over Strait of Hormuz tensions

The United Kingdom and five major global powers have strongly condemned Iran over recent attacks on commercial shipping and threats to energy infrastructure in the Strait of Hormuz, warning the situation could destabilise global energy markets.

In a joint statement released on Thursday, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan accused Iran of targeting civilian shipping and attempting to disrupt one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

“We condemn in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf,” the leaders said in the statement.

They also called on Iran to immediately halt what they described as dangerous escalation.

“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.

The countries warned that interference with maritime trade could have serious global consequences.

“The effects of Iran’s actions will be felt by people in all parts of the world, especially the most vulnerable,” the leaders added.

The statement reaffirmed that freedom of navigation remains a cornerstone of international law and stressed that protecting commercial shipping was essential for global stability.

“Maritime security and freedom of navigation benefit all countries,” the statement said. “We call on all states to respect international law and uphold the fundamental principles of international prosperity and security.”