Joint Statement on Strait of Hormuz Security and Energy Market Stabilisation
On 19 March 2026, a coalition of European powers (Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands) together with Japan and Canada issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s recent attacks on commercial vessels and offshore energy infrastructure in the Gulf. The statement outlines their readiness to support safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and to take steps to stabilise volatile energy markets.
Key Developments
- Condemnation of Iran’s attacks on unarmed commercial ships, oil and gas installations, and the de‑facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
- Call for Iran to halt threats, mine‑laying, drone and missile strikes and to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
- Reaffirmation that freedom of navigation is a cornerstone of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
- Support for the International Energy Agency (IEA) decision to release strategic petroleum reserves (SPR).
- Commitment to work with oil‑producing nations to increase output and to assist the most affected countries through the United Nations and International Financial Institutions (IFIs).
Important Facts
The joint statement was signed by seven nations, reflecting a broad geopolitical consensus on the need to keep the Gulf’s maritime routes open. The coalition emphasised that