Ankara, Aug 17 (V7N)- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, saying normal oil supplies to the global market should be restored through the vital waterway.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Erdogan said both Turkey and Iran support the continuation of oil transportation through the strait. The issue has gained renewed importance amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington.
A significant share of the world's energy supplies passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the waterway could therefore put global energy supplies under pressure and contribute to higher oil prices.
Erdogan also expressed concern over Israel's continued attacks on Lebanon despite international efforts to prevent the further escalation of regional tensions.
He warned that continued attacks could make the already volatile situation in the Middle East even more complicated.
The security of the Strait of Hormuz and the uninterrupted movement of oil have become major international concerns amid the ongoing tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
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