UK, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Japan issue joint Hormuz statement — ready to ensure safe passage

Six major international powers — UK, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Japan — issued a joint statement saying they were ready "to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz," condemning Iranian attacks on commercial vessels "in the strongest terms." The group welcomed "the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning." CEASEFIRE CAVEAT: Italy and Germany both subsequently clarified that they are not offering immediate military assistance. Both countries indicated that any multilateral Hormuz initiative would take place after a ceasefire — not while active hostilities continue. This materially limits the operational weight of the joint statement. The statement followed the Trump-Takaichi Oval Office meeting on Day 20 and represents the broadest multilateral diplomatic alignment of the war so far, even if Germany and Italy have hedged on immediate military participation.