European Countries and Japan Ready to Help Secure Strait of Hormuz to Stabilize Energy Markets

European and Japanese leaders condemned Iranian attacks, warning of global energy disruption and pledging support to keep the vital Hormuz shipping route open.

Mark Rutte: The Hormuz Strait has to open up as soon as possible. It's crucial for the world economy.

The UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan said on March 19 that they are prepared to help ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping lane blocked by Iran that U.S. President Donald Trump has asked allies to assist with opening.

In a joint statement, the countries condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and energy infrastructure, as well as the effective closure of the key shipping route, and called on Tehran to immediately halt its actions.