UK Condemns Iranian Attacks, Calls for Reopening of Strait of Hormuz

November 14, 2026 | By Semahegn Nigatu

The United Kingdom has condemned Iran’s attacks across the Gulf and called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that disruption to the strategic shipping route threatens global trade, energy and food security.

Addressing the UN Security Council, the UK said Iranian attacks had targeted civilian areas, critical infrastructure and economic assets across the Gulf and wider region. It called on Tehran to stop the attacks and respect freedom of navigation.

The statement cited Security Council Resolution 2817 as a clear message that the attacks must end and navigational rights and freedoms be respected. It said international shipping and seafarers must be able to transit the Strait of Hormuz safely and in accordance with international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The UK warned that disruption to vital maritime routes was imposing costs beyond the region, with vulnerable populations bearing the greatest burden. It also condemned what it described as Iran’s attempts to hold the global economy to ransom.

London commended mediators, including Qatar, for efforts to prevent further escalation and secure a negotiated settlement. It said diplomacy remained the only route to a sustainable solution.

The UK also warned that Iranian support for armed groups, including recent attacks by Iran-aligned groups in Iraq, risked triggering a wider regional conflict. It called on Tehran to end its support for what it described as destabilising activities.

On Yemen, the UK condemned the Houthis’ resumption of conflict, saying renewed fighting had displaced more than 340,000 people and deepened the country’s humanitarian crisis.

The statement said the Houthis’ continued siege of Taiz had pushed food prices up by at least 50 per cent and left hospitals facing shortages of fuel and medicine. It called for rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access across the country.

The UK also expressed alarm over the death of UN employee Mohammad al-Shami in Houthi detention, backing the UN secretary-general’s call for an immediate and impartial investigation. It renewed demands for the immediate and unconditional release of UN, humanitarian, civil society and diplomatic personnel held by the group.

London reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s internationally recognised government, including their right to defend their security and sovereignty in accordance with international law.

It called on the Houthis to halt their offensives and backed UN efforts to secure a negotiated, inclusive political settlement led and owned by Yemenis.

Source: FSX Business News