LONDON (dpa-AFX) – At the crisis meeting on the Strait of Hormuz, which is largely blocked by Iran, the participating countries discussed, among other things, possible further sanctions against Tehran. The British Foreign Office announced this after the online meeting called by Great Britain with representatives of more than 40 countries. Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper spoke of the determination of many countries to open the strait, which is important for global trade. However, there were no concrete steps for the time being.
The meeting reportedly discussed measures to increase pressure on Iran, including economic and political “such as sanctions” if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. However, there are already numerous sanctions against Iran, for example in the energy sector.
Another measure, according to the statement, could be cooperation with the World Maritime Organization (IMO) “to ensure that the first stranded ships can get back on the road.” The IMO recently announced that it was already working on evacuation plans for the numerous stranded ships and seafarers.
Meeting of military planners planned
The impact of the Iranian blockade on the economy is enormous. After the US and Israel attacked Iran, Tehran brought shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to a near standstill with attacks and threats. This is also why Cooper repeatedly denounced Tehran’s “recklessness.” Iran has taken the “global economy hostage,” she said.
Even before the crisis meeting, which Germany also took part in, Cooper announced a meeting of military planners. Next week they will meet in Northwood, north of London, as the British Ministry of Defense wrote on X. The aim is to discuss “viable options for ensuring the accessibility and safety of the Strait of Hormuz for shipping”./pba/DP/he
