Canada and several key international allies are condemning Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, warning the escalating situation could disrupt global energy supplies and threaten international security.
In a joint statement released Thursday, leaders from Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan denounced recent attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure in the region, including oil and gas facilities.
The countries say Iran’s actions, including threats to shipping and the effective closure of the Strait, violate international law and pose a serious risk to global trade.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, with a significant portion of global oil and gas passing through the narrow waterway.
Leaders say disruptions could have wide ranging impacts, including higher energy costs and supply chain challenges affecting countries around the world.
The group is calling on Iran to immediately halt attacks, remove threats to navigation and comply with international obligations under United Nations resolutions.
They also emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation, a key principle of international law.
To help stabilize markets, the countries welcomed a decision by the International Energy Agency to release strategic petroleum reserves and signalled they may work with energy producing nations to increase output.
Officials say they are prepared to support international efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait and assist countries most affected by potential disruptions.
The statement underscores growing global concern about the stability of critical energy routes and the broader impact on the global economy.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)