A coalition of 22 countries, primarily from Europe, including Lithuania, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, have strongly condemned Iran’s recent attacks on unarmed commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf. These attacks are seen as part of Iran's broader efforts to threaten maritime security and have raised alarms about the safety of shipping routes in the strategic Hormuz Strait. The collective statement reflects an urgent call for international cooperation to mitigate risks to commercial shipping and protect essential maritime infrastructure in the region.

The statement made by the 22 countries emphasizes their readiness to contribute to efforts aimed at ensuring safe navigation in the Hormuz Strait. They highlighted the importance of collaboration and support for nations participating in preparatory planning for security measures. The group’s response comes amid heightened tensions following the U.S. and Israel's attack on Iran, which has escalated retaliatory strikes against neighboring Persian Gulf states and ships transiting through the Strait.

Data from the analytical company 'Kpler' shows that commercial ships have made only 116 voyages through the Strait from March 1 to March 19, a staggering 95% decrease from the average number of transits. This significant drop in maritime activity underscores the impact of security threats in the region, likely affecting not only Iran but also global oil and gas markets that rely on the passage through this crucial waterway. The support from Lithuania and its allies signifies a collective effort to maintain stability in the volatile region, where international maritime trade routes are increasingly at risk.