A coalition of international leaders has issued a strongly worded joint statement condemning Iran over recent attacks on commercial shipping and warning of far-reaching consequences for global security and energy markets.
The statement, released under the auspices of the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs, brought together leaders from the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Denmark, Latvia, Slovenia, Estonia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Czechia, Romania, Bahrain, Lithuania, and Australia.
The coalition accused Iran of carrying out attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf and targeting civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas installations, while also enforcing what it described as a “de facto closure” of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
“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 leaders expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict and called on Iran to immediately halt its actions, including threats to maritime security, the laying of mines, and drone and missile strikes.
They also urged Tehran to comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817.
“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, and to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817,” the statement said.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, is central to global energy supplies, and any disruption has immediate implications for international markets.
The coalition underscored that freedom of navigation is a cornerstone of international law, referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law,” the leaders stated, warning that interference with shipping lanes and global energy supply chains poses “a threat to international peace and security.”
The statement highlighted the broader humanitarian and economic implications, noting that the effects of Iran’s actions would be felt worldwide, particularly among vulnerable populations.
“The effects of Iran’s actions will be felt by people in all parts of the world, especially the most vulnerable,” it said.
The coalition called for an immediate and comprehensive moratorium on attacks targeting civilian infrastructure, especially in the energy sector.
The leaders also signaled readiness to support efforts aimed at ensuring safe maritime passage through the Strait.
“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait,” the statement noted, adding that participating nations are already engaging in preparatory planning.
The coalition further welcomed a decision by the International Energy Agency to authorise a coordinated release of strategic petroleum reserves. The move is intended to stabilize global energy markets amid rising uncertainty.
“We welcome the International Energy Agency decision to authorise a coordinated release of strategic petroleum reserves,” the statement said, adding that countries would also explore increasing output in collaboration with key producers.
In addition, the leaders pledged support for nations most affected by the disruptions, including through multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and international financial institutions.
The coalition also reaffirmed the importance of maritime security and adherence to international law.
“Maritime security and freedom of navigation benefit all countries. We call on all states to respect international law and uphold the fundamental principles of international propriety and security,” the statement said.
