US urges allies to protect Hormuz as Iran ramps up pressure

Email: online@newsofbahrain.com

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused Iran of exploiting the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic bargaining weapon in the increasing Middle Eastern crisis, encouraging countries who rely on the key shipping route to play a more active role in protecting it. His comments come amid rising concerns that protracted instability surrounding the restricted canal could affect global energy supplies and international trade.

Speaking before travelling for the Philippines to attend the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting, Rubio stated that it was evident that factions within Iran had been trying to control the Strait of Hormuz and use it as ‘leverage against the world.’

He emphasised that ensuring the passage's security should not be primarily the responsibility of the United States, and urged other governments to 'step up' and help protect freedom of travel through one of the world's busiest maritime chokepoints.

The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, transports approximately one-fifth of global oil shipments, making it one of the world's most strategically vital waterways. Any disruption to shipping across the strait may have far-reaching effects for global energy markets, raising oil prices and impacting nations that rely largely on Gulf crude exports.

Rubio's remarks come as tensions between the US and Iran grew, with military disputes and threats to commercial vessels raising concerns about regional security. The latest developments have sparked renewed appeals from Washington for further international collaboration to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and secure for global trade.