Capitals, April 13 (SANA) International calls intensified on Monday to safeguard navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and avoid further escalation, following stalled talks between the United States and Iran and renewed concerns over a potential US-led blockade.
Negotiations between Washington and Tehran in Islamabad, which lasted nearly 20 hours over the weekend, ended without a breakthrough, raising fears of renewed tensions in the region and disruption to global energy flows.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom would not support any move to impose a blockade on the strait, stressing that London would not be drawn into a wider conflict. He added that British forces would continue defensive operations in the region but would not take part in closing Iranian ports.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called for a resumption of talks between the two sides, urging de-escalation and the restoration of safe navigation through the strait. He said Australia had not received any request to participate in a blockade.
Japan also stressed the importance of maritime security in the strategic waterway, with government spokesman Minoru Kihara expressing hope for a swift agreement to reduce tensions. He said Tokyo was closely monitoring developments and had not decided whether to deploy forces for mine-clearing operations.
China warned that the failure of negotiations could trigger renewed conflict in the Middle East, urging all parties to uphold a temporary ceasefire and pursue diplomatic solutions.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) called for maintaining maritime safety and freedom of navigation in international waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, in line with international law. The bloc urged both Washington and Tehran to continue negotiations aimed at reaching a lasting settlement and regional stability.
The appeals come after US President Donald Trump warned his administration could impose a blockade on vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports following the inconclusive talks.
US Central Command later said any blockade would be carried out “in a neutral manner,” targeting vessels linked to Iranian ports while allowing transit to and from other destinations, with further guidance to be issued to commercial shipping.
ABD
