The United Kingdom strongly condemns Iran’s reckless attacks against Bahrain and Kuwait, and on international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
First, these attacks are directly contrary to resolution 2817, put civilian lives in danger, and risk destabilising an already fragile region.
We stand in solidarity with Bahrain, Kuwait, and all our partners across the Gulf.
The United Kingdom remains committed to regional security and stability, and we will continue to provide practical support to strengthen the defence and security of our partners.
Second, the UK gives our strong backing to the International Maritime Organisation’s efforts to evacuate vessels and seafarers, which has seen a number of vessels able to safely exit the Strait, some after months of being stranded.
The IMO have had to pause their efforts as a direct result of these attacks, and we hope they will be able to resume their work as soon as possible.
We call for the right of transit passage to be fully restored in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
It is critical that the Strait is free from the threat of violence and any form of tolls or unlawful impediments, and that all parties comply with their obligations under international law.
The UK is committed to playing our part to achieve this, including through a strictly defensive and independent multinational military mission, led jointly with our French partners to provide reassurance to commercial shipping.
Finally, President, the UK welcomes and supports the implementation of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding and the ongoing negotiations.
We recognise this as a moment of opportunity to restore stability, not only for the region but also for the global economy.
It is essential that global security and economic interests are safeguarded under a final agreement.
