Updated 19 March 2026
A spokesperson for the UK Chamber of Shipping said:
“We welcome the joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan, which rightly condemns in the strongest terms the recent attacks on unarmed commercial vessels, civilian infrastructure and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Their collective readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to restore safe passage underscores the urgent need for stability in one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways. Freedom of navigation is enshrined in international law, essential for global trade and for the wellbeing of those who work at sea.”
Seafarers keep global trade moving, yet they continue to face the direct consequences of geopolitical instability. Their safety must be paramount. As governments and international partners navigate the evolving Middle East situation, it is essential that seafarers’ rights and welfare are foremost in their considerations. International coordination will be needed to ensure that vessels trapped inside the Gulf have the essential fuel, supplies, and medical support they need until they can safely move.
As international partners now signal preparedness to re‑establish safe passage through the Strait, our priority remains ensuring that seafarers are fully protected both during the current disruption and once the Straits are returned to safe navigation. Protecting crews must remain the foremost consideration at every stage, and we strongly support sustained international coordination to restore maritime security, stabilise shipping operations and safeguard those working on the front line of global trade.
The human and financial implications of prolonged disruption are significant. The UK Government must continue to play a leading role in international efforts to ensure safe maritime passage. There are further meaningful diplomatic, operational, and coordination steps the UK can, and should, take to ensure the safety of those at risk.
The UK Chamber of Shipping, together with seafarer unions, has designated the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman as a ‘Warlike Operations Area’ due to the critical security situation and the likelihood of attacks on vessels. This designation ensures stronger protections and enhances compensation for crews. These steps are essential to safeguard seafarers and help maintain stability in a region that is vital to global energy and trade.
The UK Chamber of Shipping will continue working closely with government, industry and security partners to uphold the right of safe passage, protect seafarers, and support the steady restoration of predictable and safe maritime operations across the region.”
