22 nations unite to protect Strait of Hormuz shipping

A coalition of 22 countries, led by the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and key Western powers, has formally declared its readiness to secure maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The joint initiative comes in response to recent Iranian restrictions that have threatened one of the world’s most vital energy corridors.

The strategic alliance includes the UAE, Bahrain, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, Denmark, Latvia, Slovenia, Estonia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, the Czech Republic, Romania, Lithuania, and Australia. In a joint statement, the signatories condemned what they described as Iranian attacks on unarmed commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas facilities, in the Gulf region.

The coalition expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict, calling on Tehran to immediately cease threats, mine-laying operations, and drone and missile strikes. The nations stressed that freedom of navigation is a non-negotiable principle under international law, citing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They warned that any interference with global shipping routes would have severe consequences for the global economy, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.

Iran’s restrictions, announced on March 2, declared that vessels attempting to navigate the strait without prior coordination would be targeted. The move was framed by Tehran as a response to ongoing US-Israeli strikes that began on Feb. 28. Prior to the disruption, approximately 20 million barrels of oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz daily, making it an indispensable artery for global energy markets. The current crisis has already triggered sharp increases in shipping and insurance costs.

The coalition also welcomed the International Energy Agency’s decision to coordinate the release of strategic petroleum reserves, pledging further steps to stabilise energy markets in collaboration with producing nations. The group reaffirmed that maritime security and unimpeded trade benefit all nations, calling on all states to uphold international law and contribute to regional stability.