Kyiv:<Text>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Friday that Ukraine is prepared to assist in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz, which has faced disruption following a joint offensive by the United States and Israel against Iran. Despite expressing readiness, Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine has not yet received any formal request for assistance. He emphasized that coordinated efforts would be essential for successfully lifting the blockade.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy conveyed Ukraine's willingness to engage in discussions about the Strait of Hormuz with the United States and Middle Eastern countries. He drew parallels between the current situation and the Black Sea grain corridor, which was established to facilitate global grain shipments from Odesa amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Zelenskyy suggested that diplomatic solutions should be pursued alongside ongoing negotiations about the Strait of Hormuz, as both could offer mutual benefits in th e context of the war.

Zelenskyy also proposed an alternative approach of unilateral control over the Strait, similar to Ukraine's management of the Grain Corridor. This would require comprehensive measures, including interceptors, military convoys, and an extensive electronic warfare network, to ensure the safe passage of vessels.

The geopolitical situation in the Middle East has become increasingly volatile since the US and Israel initiated airstrikes on Iran on February 28, resulting in the deaths of over 1,340 people, including Iran's then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In response, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and several Gulf countries hosting US military forces, leading to casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions in global energy markets.