Multiple nations are preparing to contribute to a plan to ensure commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely blocked by Iran in response to recent joint military strikes by the United States and Israel. The announcement comes as oil prices surge and concerns mount over a wider regional conflict.
Italy, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan have signaled their readiness to participate in the effort, according to reports. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Defense Minister Guido Crosetto clarified that their country’s contribution would not involve military intervention.
Tehran has warned that any nation assisting the U.S. In reopening the Strait of Hormuz will be considered complicit in the aggression. The Strait, a critical chokepoint for global energy trade, has seen nearly all traffic halted since the escalation of hostilities. According to the Guardian, more than 1,000 cargo ships, primarily oil and gas tankers, are currently blocked.
The disruption began following U.S. And Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28th, and intensified after the reported killing of Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The BBC reports that approximately 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) typically passes through the Strait, with an estimated $600 billion worth of energy trade passing through annually.
Attacks on commercial ships have already led to cuts in production from some of the world’s largest oil producers, as their crude has nowhere to go. Reports indicate at least 16 merchant ships caught fire in the Iranian port of Bandar Lengeh after being struck during the U.S.-Israeli attacks, according to the port’s governor, Foad Moradzadeh.
The crisis is similarly impacting global trade beyond energy. China is reportedly limiting exports of aviation fuel, diesel, and fertilizers, according to sources cited by the Financial Times. The move appears aimed at preserving China’s own energy and food reserves amid the escalating conflict. China is the world’s second-largest exporter of fertilizers and sixth-largest exporter of aviation fuel.
Further escalating tensions, Israel has conducted airstrikes targeting areas near Nur, east of Tehran, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Simultaneously, reports emerged of strong explosions in multiple Iranian cities, including Bandar Lengeh, Isfahan, Yazd, and Kerman.
The conflict has also seen a rise in accusations and retaliatory statements. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has repeatedly condemned Israel, stating, “May He, ‘the dominator’ (Al-Kahrar), crush and destroy Israel,” and accusing Israel of killing thousands of people.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the death of its spokesperson, Ali Mohammad Naini, in the U.S.-Israeli attacks. Reports indicate the execution of Saleh Mohammadi, a 19-year-ancient member of Iran’s national freestyle wrestling team, following a conviction related to protests last year.
Meanwhile, Kuwait reported an outbreak of fire at a refinery following drone attacks, and the United Arab Emirates announced the arrest of five individuals allegedly linked to a “terrorist network” connected to Iran and Hezbollah. Sirens were also activated in Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia reported intercepting a drone in its eastern region.
Sri Lanka has confirmed it rejected a U.S. Request to allow two American warplanes to be stationed on the island in early March. The IRGC has stated that its missile stockpiles remain sufficient despite the ongoing conflict, warning of “surprises” and more complex operations in the future.
European Union officials have reportedly agreed on a message urging a moratorium on attacks targeting oil and gas facilities, aiming to de-escalate the situation. However, a lasting resolution remains elusive, and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial traffic.
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