Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan issued a joint statement declaring their readiness to contribute to “appropriate efforts” to ensure the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, given the continuing escalation that puts ship traffic and global energy supplies at risk. Reuters reported that a similar statement was also issued with the participation of Canada.
The signatory countries condemned the Iranian attacks on commercial ships and civilian infrastructure in the Gulf region, and demanded an immediate cessation of attacks on oil and gas facilities, while emphasizing that freedom of navigation represents a basic pillar of international law and cannot be violated.
These countries affirmed their intention to also work to support the stability of energy markets, by supporting measures aimed at increasing supplies and mitigating the effects of the crisis on the global economy, in addition to providing assistance to the most affected countries through the United Nations and international institutions.
This position comes at the same time as Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to the United States, where she confirmed that Tokyo will speak frankly with Washington about the limits of Japan’s ability to act in the Hormuz file, due to the legal and constitutional restrictions that limit any Japanese military action outside the country. She had stated a few days ago that Japan does not currently intend to send a naval escort mission to the strait.
On the other hand, it was reported that Iran is considering imposing transit fees on ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz, in a move that reflects Tehran’s efforts to strengthen its control over this vital corridor through which about a fifth of global oil and gas trade passes.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte also expressed his confidence that the allies will act in the common interest, in light of increasing Western pressure to quickly reopen the Strait and prevent the continued disruption of trade and energy globally.
