SYDNEY April 18, 2026 – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged an immediate end to the ongoing Middle East conflict and the permanent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil supplies that has been disrupted by recent hostilities involving Iran.
In a video statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) today, Mr Albanese said: “We want to see an end to this conflict and the Strait of Hormuz open.”
The comments follow his participation in a virtual international leaders’ summit held last night, involving approximately 40 heads of government, including French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The meeting focused on restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and exploring ways for nations to support secure maritime operations in the region once tensions ease.
Australia has indicated it is prepared to contribute to international efforts to stabilise the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, was heavily disrupted after US and Israeli military actions against Iran began in late February 2026. Iran’s retaliatory measures led to significant blockages and threats to shipping, triggering sharp rises in global oil prices and fuel shortages that have directly affected Australia’s energy security and household costs.
The latest developments come after Iran announced yesterday that it would reopen the strait to commercial vessels, following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. US President Donald Trump has confirmed the waterway is now open for business, though American naval measures against Iranian ports remain in place.
Mr Albanese’s statement emphasised Australia’s interest in de-escalation and reliable global energy flows. “Last night’s summit… approach… opened, of course… shield the globe… that we can… to make sure… to do,” he said in the full address, underscoring the need for coordinated international action to protect energy supplies worldwide.
The crisis has renewed domestic calls for greater Australian fuel self-sufficiency, with critics pointing to vulnerabilities in the nation’s reliance on imported oil amid global instability.
The Prime Minister’s office has not announced any immediate new policy measures, but the government continues to monitor the situation closely for any impact on Australian fuel prices and supply chains.
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