Six major nations have expressed readiness to back efforts aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, but emphasized that any concrete action would depend on the establishment of a ceasefire.
In a joint statement, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the Netherlands said they are prepared to contribute to initiatives that would guarantee safe passage through the vital maritime route. The group also welcomed ongoing preparations by other countries to address the growing security risks in the area.
The allies strongly condemned recent attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, which they attributed to Iran. However, Germany and Italy clarified that there are no plans for immediate military involvement, pointing instead to a possible coordinated response under an international framework once hostilities ease.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor, has been severely affected by the conflict that erupted on February 28 following airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iran. In response, Tehran has launched retaliatory attacks across the Gulf region, further heightening tensions.
At least 23 commercial ships, including several oil tankers, have reported attacks or security incidents. The disruption has also left around 20,000 seafarers stranded aboard thousands of vessels unable to safely pass through the area.
The six countries called on Iran to immediately stop actions that endanger maritime navigation, including the use of mines, drones, and missile strikes. They stressed that freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law and warned that continued instability could have serious global economic consequences.
Despite calls from US President Donald Trump for swift intervention, the allied nations remain cautious. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said any mission should not be seen as a combat operation, while Germany’s Boris Pistorius noted that participation would depend on post-ceasefire conditions and proper international authorization.
A British defense official also said the current threat level makes countries hesitant to deploy warships to the region, although planning efforts are ongoing for possible future measures.
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