Leaders of five European countries and Japan issued a joint statement condemning Iran for closing the Strait of Hormuz and stated their readiness to participate in any “appropriate” efforts to reopen the strait.
On 19 Mar 2026 GMT+7, leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan jointly issued a statement regarding Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, affirming their willingness to engage in “appropriate efforts” to reopen the passage.
“We strongly condemn Iran's recent attacks targeting unarmed commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf, including assaults on civilian infrastructure such as oil and gas facilities, and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces,” the joint statement declared.
“We express grave concern over the escalating conflict. We call on Iran to immediately cease intimidation, mine-laying, drone and missile attacks, and other attempts to obstruct maritime transportation through the strait, and to comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2817.”
“Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law, including under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” the statement said, adding, “Iran’s actions will impact people worldwide, especially the most vulnerable.”
“In line with UNSCR 2817, we reaffirm that interfering with international navigation and disrupting global energy supply chains pose threats to international peace and security. We call for an immediate and comprehensive halt to attacks on civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas installations.”
“We express readiness to support appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait and welcome the commitment of countries currently planning such measures.”
“We welcome the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) decision to approve a coordinated release of strategic oil reserves. We will take further steps to stabilize energy markets, including cooperating with certain producers to increase output.”
“Additionally, we will act to assist the most affected countries, including through the United Nations and International Financial Institutions (IFIs).”
“Maritime security and freedom of navigation benefit all nations. We urge all states to respect international law and uphold fundamental principles of global prosperity and security,” the statement concluded.
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Source:gov.uk