G7 stresses ‘absolute necessity’ of toll-free Hormuz passage, calls for halt to civilian attacks

G7 foreign ministers on Friday stressed the “absolute necessity” of restoring safe and toll-free freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran continues to restrict movement through the vital waterway.

A joint statement, released in the name of all G7 members, including the United States, called for “an immediate cessation of attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure”.

“There can be no justification for the deliberate targeting of civilians in situations of armed conflict as well as attacks on diplomatic facilities,” it said, after the foreign ministers of the world’s leading industrialised nations met in France.

The joint statement had initially not been expected, which had been seen as a potential sign of transatlantic tensions over the US-Israeli war against the Islamic republic.

US President Donald Trump has threatened strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure if the strait is not reopened, though he has extended his self-imposed deadline to April 6. Allies signalled willingness to support efforts to secure the route but maintained that de-escalation must come first. Iran has meanwhile reportedly considered legislation to impose tolls on vessels transiting the channel.

The ministers also highlighted the need for coordination to mitigate global economic shocks, including disruptions to energy, fertilizer and commercial supply chains, and stressed the importance of humanitarian efforts.

Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also highlighted the concerns of Global South nations over energy, food and fertiliser security, while calling for urgent reforms in global governance.

Speaking at the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in France on Thursday, Jaishankar also stressed the need for more resilient trade corridors and supply chains amid growing uncertainty caused by the conflict.

India, though not a G7 member, attended the meeting as a partner country at the invitation of France, which currently holds the bloc’s presidency. Other invited nations included Saudi Arabia, South Korea and Brazil. The meeting was held at Abbaye des-Vaux-de-Cernay.