Kathrine Frich
Global tensions are rising fast as the conflict in the Middle East begins to pull in more countries.
World powers clash over control of one of the most critical shipping routes on the planet.
With oil supplies under threat and military activity escalating, governments are now facing a stark choice.
And Russia has issued a blunt warning.
Moscow issues stark warning
Russia has warned that any country joining a US-led coalition to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz will be treated as part of the conflict.
According to Moscow, such countries would become “a party to the Middle East conflict and an accomplice of the Americans and Israelis in the aggression against Iran.”
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova made clear that Russia opposes any military solution.
“Russia’s position on this issue remains unchanged. We proceed from the fact that a solution to resume navigation through the Strait of Hormuz must be sought at the negotiating table,” she said.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most important trade routes in the world.
Before the conflict escalated, around 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas passed through the narrow stretch of water between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.
But since fighting began on February 28, the route has been largely disrupted.
US pushes allies to act
US President Donald Trump has urged allies to send military ships to escort vessels through the strait in a bid to restore safe passage.
The move has raised fears that more countries could be dragged directly into the conflict.
Several major nations have already responded.
France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan have condemned attacks on energy infrastructure and declared their “willingness to contribute” to securing the route.
They also called for an immediate halt to strikes on civilian facilities, especially oil and gas installations.
Iran vows to continue
Iran has defended its actions following US and Israeli strikes, insisting it is acting within its rights.
Tehran has said it will continue its response under its “legitimate right to self-defense” as long as it feels threatened.
At the same time, Iran has reportedly allowed ships from friendly nations to pass, while warning that vessels linked to hostile countries could be blocked.
The situation has left thousands stranded at sea.
Around 3,200 ships carrying some 20,000 sailors are currently stuck in the region as uncertainty grows.
An emergency meeting of the International Maritime Organization is now underway in London, as global leaders scramble to find a solution.
