UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has stated that countries around the world are determined to use “every possible diplomatic, economic and coordinated measure” to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
In an interview, Cooper said that more than 40 countries have joined efforts to restore access to the vital maritime route, which has effectively been blocked by Iran. The closure has placed significant pressure on global supply chains and energy prices.
According to BBC, Cooper has been hosting discussions focused on reopening the strait. She strongly condemned what she described as Iran’s “reckless” attacks on international shipping, accusing Tehran of attempting to “overwhelm the global economy.”
Cooper explained that the disruptions are already affecting mortgage rates and fuel prices in the United Kingdom, as well as aviation fuel globally, fertilizer supplies in Africa, and gas deliveries to Asia.
She stressed that her responsibility is to act in the UK’s national interest, noting that ending the conflict would be the most effective way to ease the cost-of-living crisis.
The foreign secretary added that potential measures could include cooperation with the International Maritime Organization to ensure that the first stranded vessels can resume movement.
According to the United Nations, up to 2,000 ships remain stranded in the Persian Gulf.
