Germany Calls for Strait of Hormuz to Remain Open, Urges US–Iran–Israel Talks

13/04/2026

BERLIN, Apr 13: Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the Strait of Hormuz must remain “free and open,” stressing that it is an international maritime route protected under international law.

Speaking to reporters in Berlin on Monday, Wadephul said it is “urgently necessary” to ensure uninterrupted navigation through the strait, adding that keeping it open “must be the goal of us all” and must be respected by all parties.

He emphasized that Germany is focused on diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict and did not comment directly on earlier threats involving the potential closure of the waterway.

Separately, Wadephul urged renewed negotiations involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, welcoming the continuation of a fragile truce and calling for sustained dialogue to achieve a lasting solution.

Speaking at a joint press conference with South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, he warned that global repercussions of the conflict are already being felt, including rising fuel prices, threats of food insecurity in parts of Africa due to fertilizer shortages, and energy supply pressures in Asia.

Wadephul also reiterated Germany’s support for a firm international stance against Iran’s nuclear ambitions, aligning with what he described as the need for a “credible and robust” halt to Tehran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons.