Iran could face further sanctions if Strait of Hormuz remains closed – Cooper

Iran could face further sanctions if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, the Foreign Secretary has signalled after holding talks with more than 40 nation from across the world.

Yvette Cooper said collective action to increase pressure on Tehran was being discussed as she accused the country of trying to “hold the global economy hostage” with its effective blockade on the key shipping lane.

In a statement after the meeting, which included countries from every continent in the world apart from Antarctica, she said: “Iran is trying to hold the global economy hostage in the Strait of Hormuz.

“They must not prevail. To that effect, partners today called for the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait and respect for the fundamental principles of freedom of navigation and the law of the sea.”

Measures could include increasing diplomatic pressure, including through the UN, to push Iran to allow unimpeded transit and to “comprehensively reject” tolls being imposed on vessels seeking to pass through.

Countries also discussed exploring “co-ordinated economic and political measures, such as sanctions, to bear down on Iran if the Strait remains closed” and working with the International Maritime Organisation to secure the release of thousands of ships and sailors trapped in the strait, she said.