A coalition of 40 countries demanded Thursday that Iran immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most critical oil shipping route that has remained virtually closed since the US-Israeli war against Iran erupted on February 28.
The UK-led virtual summit produced no breakthrough but unified international pressure on Tehran to end its blockade of the waterway through which one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas normally flows.
Iran is trying to hold the global economy hostage in the Strait of Hormuz. They must not prevail
Yvette Cooper, British Foreign Minister — Al-Monitor
The strait's closure has triggered sharp increases in energy prices worldwide and disrupted global supplies of oil, natural gas, and fertilizers. Iranian Revolutionary Guards have indicated they will maintain the blockade against what they consider enemies of their country.
Foreign ministers and representatives discussed coordinated responses including increased diplomatic pressure through the United Nations and potential new sanctions against Iran. The Gulf Cooperation Council separately called for UN Security Council authorization to use force to protect the waterway.
Britain frames Iran's actions as economic hostage-taking and leads international efforts to pressure Tehran. The UK emphasizes coordinated diplomatic responses while preparing military planning sessions for potential escalation.
Singapore's coverage focuses on the international coalition's demands and economic impacts. The reporting presents the crisis as a global challenge requiring multilateral solutions without taking sides.