Greece is calling for a long-term, internationally backed solution to secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting separate bilateral deals that allow individual ships to pass. The statement came from Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis on Tuesday during a joint briefing with German counterpart Johann Wadephul in Berlin.

“We do not think that it is optimal to have separate agreements, so that ships enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz,” Gerapetritis said, emphasizing that peace and security in the region require a broader alliance and coordination under international organizations, particularly the United Nations.

Strategic Importance of the Strait

Greece, a major global shipping power with one of the world’s largest merchant fleets, has a significant stake in the Gulf. Many Greek-owned or managed vessels operate in the area, crewed by dozens of Greek seafarers.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial passage, handling roughly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade. Shipping through the strait has been heavily disrupted amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, raising concerns about global energy supply and maritime safety.