Bahrain Joins International Effort to Secure Strait of Hormuz Amid Iranian Threats

Bahrain has aligned itself with the United Kingdom and a growing coalition of nations in a pledge to support the safe passage of vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. This move comes in response to escalating tensions and recent Iranian actions that have disrupted maritime traffic in the region.

Condemnation of Iranian Actions

Bahrain strongly condemned recent attacks by Iran on commercial vessels in the Gulf, targeting civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations. The nation also voiced concern over what it described as the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces, according to a statement from the state-run Bahrain News Agency.

Growing International Coalition

Bahrain joins a list of 19 countries – including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, Fresh Zealand, Denmark, Latvia, Slovenia, Estonia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Czechia, Romania, and Lithuania – in urging Iran to de-escalate the situation. A joint statement was initially published on Thursday, with several countries subsequently adding their support.

Urging Iran to Cease Disruptive Activities

The coalition is calling on Iran to “cease immediately its threats, laying of mines, drone and missile attacks and other attempts to block” the Strait of Hormuz. They have also expressed a “readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage” through the critical waterway.

Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, and is one of the world’s most important oil transit chokepoints. Approximately 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through the strait, making its security crucial for the global economy.

Iran’s Actions and Regional Response

Under the direction of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran has been using the Strait of Hormuz as “leverage” in its response to U.S. And international actions. Since February 28th, at least 15 tankers have been targeted in the region, causing significant disruption to oil and gas trade and driving up prices. There have also been reports of potential sea mines being deployed.

Efforts to Bypass the Strait

As the Strait of Hormuz remains largely blocked, Gulf exporters are increasingly relying on pipelines to bypass the strait. Saudi Arabia is increasing flows through its East-West pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, although the UAE is raising exports through the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline, which connects onshore fields to the Gulf of Oman.

Uncertainty Regarding Security Efforts

The specific measures that will be taken to secure the Strait of Hormuz remain unclear, as does the timeline for implementation. The international community continues to deliberate on the best course of action to ensure the safe passage of vessels through this vital shipping lane.