Six countries say ready to help on Strait of Hormuz, stabilise energy markets

Friday, 20 March 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, and Japan say they’ll take steps to stabilise energy markets and are ready to join “appropriate efforts” to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

In a joint statement, the countries condemned attacks by Iran and called on it to halt them immediately. They also said they will work with certain energy producing nations to increase output and stabilise markets.

“We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait,” the statement said. “We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning.”

Welcoming the release of strategic petroleum reserves, it added: “We will take other steps to stabilise energy markets including working with certain producing nations to increase output.”