Türkiye warns against military intervention in Strait of Hormuz

Türkiye has raised concerns over proposals involving new regulations or potential international military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such approaches could face serious practical and political difficulties amid escalating regional tensions.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who has been in contact with the United States, Iran and mediator Pakistan, said in remarks reported by state-owned Anadolu Agency that the strait should be reopened through diplomacy following unsuccessful weekend talks between Washington and Tehran, Reuters reports. 

He stressed that negotiations should rely on “convincing methods” and that reopening the waterway as soon as possible was essential, adding that “nobody wants” the Strait of Hormuz to become part of the wider conflict.

"There are many difficulties to intervening here with an international armed force. Especially as the war continues, how much will it narrow, expand? We see many countries are not keen on this," Fidan said.

"The problem is whether there will be proposals ‌on ⁠new regulations from now on, particularly from Iran," which could decide to be "more active" on the strait, he added.

Fidan’s comments come as maritime tensions in the region have escalated sharply. Iran has effectively restricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz in response to US-Israeli strikes, disrupting a route that carries roughly a fifth of global energy supplies and contributing to a surge in energy prices.

The United States military has said it will begin a blockade of maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, while Washington has sought allied support to reopen the strait. However, partners have shown limited willingness to participate.

Fidan said both Washington and Tehran appeared “sincere” in ceasefire discussions but warned that progress could be undermined if nuclear negotiations are approached from an “all-or-nothing” standpoint.

According to a source cited in the report, Fidan held talks on April 12 with US and Pakistani officials involved in the negotiations.

By Sabina Mammadli