Europe, Japan vow to secure Hormuz

Leading European nations and Japan have agreed to support “appropriate efforts” to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and help stabilise energy markets amid escalating tensions.
In a joint statement, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan condemned Iran’s actions and urged it to immediately cease threats, including mining, drone and missile attacks, and attempts to block commercial shipping. They warned that interference with shipping and disruption of global energy supply chains posed a serious threat to international peace and security.
As the conflict entered its 20th day, the Strait of Hormuz remained effectively closed, with 23 commercial vessels, including 10 tankers, reporting attacks or related incidents. The leaders stressed that freedom of navigation was a fundamental principle of international law and cautioned that disruptions would impact people worldwide.
The development reflects growing concern over Iran’s retaliatory strikes following US-Israeli attacks, with damage reported to oil and gas facilities on both sides, driving energy prices higher. US President Donald Trump has urged NATO allies to deploy warships to escort vessels through the Strait, but several countries have shown reluctance.
Meanwhile, Iran intensified attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure after Israel struck its South Pars gas field, raising fears of wider conflict and supply disruptions.