U.S. President Donald Trump has appealed to China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain, and other nations for assistance in keeping the Strait of Hormuz “open and safe,” but as of Sunday, no firm commitments have been made as oil prices continue to rise amid the ongoing conflict with Iran.
International Response Remains Cautious
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated he has been in communication with several countries, expressing his expectation that China “will be a constructive partner” in reopening the strait, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil exports normally pass.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed that Tehran has received approaches from a number of countries seeking safe passage for their vessels, stating that the decision rests with the Iranian military. He noted that vessels from “different countries” have been permitted to pass, though details were not provided.
Iran has declared the strait open to all nations except the United States and its allies.
Mr. Araghchi indicated that there is “no reason” for discussions with the U.S. Regarding a resolution to the conflict, citing coordinated attacks by Israel and the U.S. On February 28th, which occurred during indirect negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program. He added that Tehran has “no plan to recover” enriched uranium damaged in prior attacks.
The United Kingdom’s Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, said his country is “intensively looking with our allies at what can be done” to reopen the strait, adding that ending the war is “the best and surest” way to achieve this.
South Korea’s Foreign Ministry stated it “takes note” of Trump’s call and will “closely coordinate and carefully review” the situation with the U.S. Japan is expected to be directly addressed by President Trump when Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visits the White House on Thursday. There was no immediate response from China.
France has indicated It’s working with European, Indian, and other Asian partners on a potential international mission to escort ships through the strait, but only when “the circumstances permit,” meaning when fighting has subsided.
Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Impact
The International Energy Agency announced Sunday that emergency oil stocks “will soon start flowing to global markets,” representing “by far the largest ever” collective action to lower prices, with reserves totaling nearly 412 million barrels. Asian member countries will release stocks “immediately,” while Europe and the Americas will follow “from the end of March.”
Gulf Arab states reported new missile and drone attacks following Iran’s call for the evacuation of three major ports in the United Arab Emirates – the first time Iran has threatened a neighboring country’s non-U.S. Assets. Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE reported intercepting projectiles.
Iran accused the U.S. Of launching strikes on Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil terminal, from the UAE, a claim denied by both U.S. Central Command and a diplomatic advisor to the UAE president.
Iran has threatened attacks on U.S.-linked “oil, economic and energy infrastructures” if its own oil infrastructure is targeted. Hundreds of missiles and drones have been fired at the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman, causing damage despite most being intercepted.
At least a dozen civilians have been killed in Gulf countries by Iranian strikes, many of whom were migrant workers. In Iran, over 1,300 people have been killed, including 223 women and 202 children, according to Iran’s Health Ministry. Damage from strikes in Tehran was shown to journalists on Sunday, including a damaged police station and surrounding buildings.
Twelve people have been killed by Iranian missile fire in Israel, with more injured. At least 13 U.S. Military members have died, including six in a plane crash in Iraq. In Lebanon, at least 820 people have been killed since Iran-backed Hezbollah began attacks on Israel.
More than 800,000 people – nearly one in seven residents of Lebanon – have been displaced in the last 10 days. Displaced families in Beirut are struggling with damaged shelters as rain continues.
Israel continues to strike targets in Iran, and Iran has responded with missile attacks, including strikes in central Israel and the Tel Aviv area, causing damage at 23 sites and sparking a fire. Israel reports Iran is using cluster bombs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Strait of Hormuz?
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage through which approximately one-fifth of global oil exports normally pass.
What is Iran’s position regarding the Strait of Hormuz?
Iran has stated that the strait is open to all nations except the United States and its allies.
What is the current status of international efforts to address the situation?
U.S. President Donald Trump has appealed to several countries for assistance, but as of Sunday, no firm commitments have been made.
As the conflict continues, what steps might international actors take to de-escalate tensions and ensure the safe passage of vessels through this vital waterway?
