Britain’s foreign secretary Yvette Cooper has said that more than 40 countries have united to support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global waterway.
In an interview with broadcasters, she said countries across the world remain determined to pursue diplomatic, economic and joint measures to restore passage through the strait. She noted that its closure by Iran has placed severe pressure on global supply chains and energy prices.
Cooper has repeatedly condemned what she described as irresponsible attacks by Iran on shipping, stating that such actions amount to an attempt to hold the global economy to ransom. She said the disruption has affected mortgage rates and petrol prices in the United Kingdom, while also impacting jet fuel supplies, fertiliser shipments to Africa and gas deliveries to Asia.
She said her duty is to act in Britain’s national interest, adding that an end to the conflict would be the most effective way to address the cost-of-living crisis.
The foreign secretary said measures under consideration include coordination with the International Maritime Organization to facilitate the movement of stranded vessels.
According to the United Nations, at least 2,000 ships remain stranded in the Persian Gulf.
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