A spokesperson for the UK Chamber of Shipping said:

"The UK Chamber of Shipping condemns any attack on commercial shipping and calls for an immediate cessation of such incidents.

Freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and other international waterways must be upheld in accordance with international law. The right of merchant vessels to transit safely and securely through these waters must be respected by all parties.

Seafarers should never be placed at risk by military action. Their safety, security and welfare must remain paramount.

We support international efforts to protect commercial shipping, restore stability and safeguard the uninterrupted flow of global trade. We are monitoring developments closely and will continue to review the situation as events unfold."

Notes to editors: The UK Chamber of Shipping, together with seafarer unions, continues to designate the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman as a Warlike Operations Area and will keep this designation under review in light of the evolving security situation. For further information, please contact Peter Aylott, Director of Policy.