Canada has endorsed a joint declaration from the leaders of seven nations urging Iran to halt all efforts to obstruct commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and indicating a willingness to assist in efforts to reopen the waterway.
The declaration does not specify how the countries may provide assistance, although Defence Minister David McGuinty mentioned that Canada is “considering” offering support to Iran’s neighbors if they request help from NATO.
Since the U.S. and Israel commenced their attack on Iran on February 28, Iran has effectively blocked the strait, through which approximately one-fifth of the global oil and gas supply typically passes.
The joint statement noted that “disruptions to global energy supply chains pose a threat to international peace and security.”
It further stated, “We urge an immediate and comprehensive moratorium on assaults against civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas facilities.”
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Canada’s endorsement of the statement came shortly after it was issued by the leaders of the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan. Additionally, the leaders stated their readiness to “contribute to suitable efforts to ensure secure passage through the strait.”
In an effort to clarify what type of contribution Canada could potentially provide, CBC News contacted the Prime Minister’s Office. A representative from Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand responded via email, indicating that “any possible support would be determined by the on-the-ground requirements, Canada’s legal and policy frameworks, and ongoing discussions with partners and allies.”
U.S. President Donald Trump’s pleas for support in the Strait of Hormuz are being dismissed by his allies, leaving the nation largely alone to fight Iran’s tight grip on the key sea passage. Retired vice-admiral Mark Norman discusses the approach by U.S. allies and whether the U.S. could secure the strait by itself.
European nations have so far indicated their willingness to engage in the strait only if there are moves to de-escalate the situation and put an end to the attacks.
On Thursday, Iran escalated its assaults on oil and natural gas facilities across the Persian Gulf, sending additional shockwaves through the global economy.
Attempts to circumvent the Strait of Hormuz have also been targeted. An Iranian drone struck a Saudi refinery located on the Red Sea, which the country had intended to utilize as an alternative exit route.
