Russia has issued a stark warning to countries considering joining a US-led coalition to patrol the Strait of Hormuz, calling such moves a direct escalation of tensions with Iran. The statement comes amid ongoing clashes between Iran, the US, and Israel, which have rocked global energy markets this year.
🔹 Why It Matters: The Strait of Hormuz is a critical oil transit route, with 20% of the world’s supply passing through. Moscow claims nations joining the coalition would become "parties to the conflict" under international law, effectively backing what it calls "US and Israeli aggression."
🔹 Flashback: Tensions exploded last month after a US-Israeli strike killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, triggering retaliatory missile attacks by Tehran. Russia has repeatedly criticized the military campaign as "unprovoked," urging diplomacy instead.
🔹 What’s Next: Iran’s ambassador to South Africa vowed Wednesday to continue military action in "self-defense," signaling no de-escalation. Meanwhile, most US allies have rejected Washington’s call for naval support, leaving the coalition plan in limbo.
💬 "The solution lies at the negotiating table, not in gunboat diplomacy," stressed Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, doubling down on Moscow’s stance.
