Turkey says Strait of Hormuz should not be used as 'weapon'

ANKARA - Turkey supports efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Tuesday, adding the channel should not be used as a "weapon" during the Iran war.

Speaking at a press conference in Doha alongside his Qatari counterpart, Fidan also said Ankara was contributing to efforts led by Pakistan to find a negotiated end to war between Iran and the United States. 

In addition to the Hormuz issue, Fidan revealed that Turkey is actively contributing to diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan to reach a negotiated end to the conflict between Iran and the United States.

“We are working with our Pakistani brothers and other friendly countries to help find a peaceful and sustainable solution to this dangerous confrontation,” he added.

The comments come as the Iran conflict enters its 11th week, with repeated Iranian threats to close or restrict access to the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint responsible for nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments. The waterway has been a major source of concern for energy markets and Gulf states since the escalation began on February 28.