Europe Condemns Iran Over Gulf Shipping Attacks, Warns Of Global Fallout
News Updated: 19 March 2026 21:07 EAT
President Emmanuel Macron of France
European powers including United Kingdom, France and Germany have issued a strong condemnation of Iran following a surge in attacks on commercial shipping and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
In a joint statement released on March 19, the countries, alongside Italy, the Netherlands and Japan, denounced escalating Iranian actions targeting unarmed merchant vessels and civilian infrastructure in the Gulf.
The statement condemned attacks involving drones, missiles and naval mines, warning that such actions pose a direct threat to international shipping and global economic stability.
Leaders said the Strait of Hormuz had been effectively rendered inoperable due to Iranian actions, describing the situation as a de facto closure of one of the world’s most strategic maritime chokepoints.
The waterway typically handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, making any disruption a major risk to global energy markets and supply chains.
European nations called on Iran to immediately cease all hostile activities, including threats against vessels, mining operations and continued missile and drone strikes targeting shipping lanes.
They emphasized that freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle under international law and must be upheld to ensure the safe passage of commercial goods.
The joint statement also highlighted the humanitarian and economic consequences of the disruption, noting that vulnerable populations worldwide could be disproportionately affected by rising energy prices and supply shortages.
European governments signaled readiness to support international efforts aimed at restoring safe navigation through the strait, though they stopped short of committing to direct military intervention.
They welcomed ongoing preparatory planning among allies to secure maritime routes and ensure that commercial shipping can resume safely in the region.
The countries also backed coordinated global measures to stabilize energy markets, including the possible release of strategic petroleum reserves and collaboration with oil-producing nations.
International concern has intensified as attacks on vessels have increased, with multiple ships reported damaged or forced to halt operations amid mounting security fears.
The crisis stems from a broader regional conflict that escalated in recent weeks, triggering retaliatory actions by Iran and heightened instability across the Gulf.
Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has sharply declined, with many vessels avoiding the route due to safety concerns and rising insurance risks.
European leaders concluded by urging all parties to respect international law and support de-escalation efforts, warning that continued instability in the Gulf could undermine global peace and security.
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FELIX MAKONA
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