Since this war began on 28 February, we have been clear that Israeli and US attacks against Iran are in violation of international law. The same applies to Iran’s attacks against civilian infrastructure in neighbouring countries. 

Attacks on civilian infrastructure such as power plants, bridges and water supplies are contrary to international law and may constitute war crimes. If the war is escalated in this manner, civilians will be severely affected and there will be very serious economic consequences for the entire region. It will also exacerbate and prolong the already very serious global repercussions. 

I strongly warn against any further escalation. The many conflicts in the Middle East cannot be resolved through the use of military force. On the contrary, continued escalation would represent a serious setback for people, societies and economies throughout the region and the rest of the world. I urge the parties to put the protection of the civilian population first. They must respect international law, protect civilians and seek diplomatic solutions. Norway is in close political contact with countries in the region and key stakeholders. 

At a UK‑led meeting of foreign ministers last week, I discussed together with representatives from around 40 countries and organisations the consequences of Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz. We discussed how to ensure the transport of particularly critical commodities for humanitarian reasons, and other possible measures while the war is ongoing. There was broad agreement that the objective must be the full reopening of the Strait, and that no precedent must be set allowing coastal states to restrict passage or levy charges on ships transiting international straits. Under the Law of the Sea Convention, the right of transit passage through such straits is absolute. This meeting is being followed up by a further meeting today, which will, inter alia, consider possible measures to secure transport following a potential ceasefire or peace agreement. Participation in military operations in the Strait of Hormuz while the war is ongoing is not an option. 

As a maritime nation, Norway and Norwegian shipping interests are affected by the war and by Iran’s unacceptable obstruction of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. We are in close contact with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and other Norwegian businesses to assist them in managing the consequences, both those we are already seeing and those we could expect in the event of further escalation. We are also working with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on how we can assist ships and seafarers stranded inside the strait.