Over 20 countries pledge support for safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, condemning Iran’s attacks and calling for adherence to international law

KUALA LUMPUR: More than 20 countries have expressed readiness to support efforts ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

In a joint statement, the leaders of 22 nations condemned recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure.

The countries include the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, and Australia.

“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait,” the statement read.

The nations also called on Iran to cease its threats and attempts to block the strategic waterway.

They demanded compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817.

“Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law,” the statement emphasised.

The countries called for an immediate moratorium on attacks on civilian oil and gas installations.

They welcomed the International Energy Agency’s decision to authorise a release of strategic petroleum reserves.

The statement added that steps would be taken to stabilise energy markets, including working to increase output.

“Maritime security and freedom of navigation benefit all countries,” it concluded.

 The Sun Malaysia