Global Leaders Condemn Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Crisis, Urge Immediate Ceasefire and Protection of Maritime Trade

A powerful joint statement issued by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with a coalition of major global powers, has strongly condemned recent developments in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions. The statement—endorsed by countries including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, South Korea, Australia, and several European and Gulf nations—denounced recent attacks attributed to Iran on unarmed commercial vessels and civilian energy infrastructure in the Gulf. The signatories condemned in the “strongest terms” Iran’s alleged actions, including missile and drone attacks, laying of naval mines, and attempts to disrupt commercial shipping routes. The statement urged Iran to immediately halt such activities and comply with international obligations, particularly United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817. They emphasized that freedom of navigation is a cornerstone of international law, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, warning that any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could have severe global consequences. The coalition expressed deep concern over the widening conflict, noting that the impact of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz would be felt worldwide—especially among vulnerable populations due to its critical role in global energy supply chains. The statement highlighted that interference with international shipping and energy transport poses a direct threat to international peace and security. In response to the crisis, the coalition welcomed the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) decision to authorize a coordinated release of strategic petroleum reserves to stabilize global energy markets. Additional measures are expected, including efforts to increase oil production from key producing nations. The countries also expressed readiness to support initiatives aimed at ensuring safe maritime passage through the Strait, signaling potential coordinated naval or diplomatic efforts in the coming days. This joint statement marks a significant diplomatic escalation, reflecting rising international alarm over the situation in one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.