Several major global powers have issued a joint warning over rising tensions in the Gulf, pledging to act to protect shipping and stabilise energy markets as the crisis deepens.
In a statement released on Thursday, countries including United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan and Canada strongly condemned recent actions by Iran in the Gulf region.
The group accused Tehran of attacking unarmed commercial vessels, targeting civilian infrastructure such as oil and gas facilities, and effectively shutting down the vital Strait of Hormuz.
They described the situation as a serious threat to global stability, warning that disruptions in the narrow waterway through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes would have far-reaching consequences, particularly for vulnerable economies.
Calling for immediate de-escalation, the countries urged Iran to halt missile and drone attacks, stop laying mines, and refrain from interfering with commercial shipping.
They also stressed the importance of upholding international law, including the principle of freedom of navigation.
Despite the tensions, the nations signalled readiness to support coordinated efforts aimed at ensuring safe passage through the strait.
They also backed moves by the International Energy Agency to release strategic oil reserves and said they would work with energy-producing countries to boost supply.
In addition, the group pledged support for countries most affected by the crisis, including through international institutions, as concerns grow over the broader economic fallout of the conflict.
The statement reflects mounting global alarm over the escalating confrontation in the Middle East and its potential to disrupt energy markets and international trade.
