NEW YORK, New York - France, Germany and the UK say they are gravely concerned by the increased tensions in the Gulf that were further heightened after the downing of a U.S. drone by Iran on 20 June.

The message was delivered by the three countries to a press conference on Monday at the UN headquarters in New York. Germany's Ambassador to the UN Christoph Heusgen read the statement while flanked by the ambassadors of the other two countries.

"These developments risk miscalculation and conflict. We call for de-escalation and dialogue, with full respect for international rules," the statement said.

"We reiterate our strong condemnation of attacks on the tankers in the Gulf of Oman, the acts of sabotage on four vessels off Fujairah, and any threat to the safety of maritime traffic and peace and security in the region. The attacks on tankers contravene international rules on freedom of navigation and maritime transport. They carry environmental risk. And they have the potential to further destabilise an already volatile region."

"With a view to the upcoming Council Session on SCR 2231 this week, France, Germany and the United Kingdom stress their commitment to the full implementation of SCR 2231 and the preservation of the JCPoA, which we believe contributes to reducing tensions in the region as well as global nuclear non-proliferation," the joint statement said.

"We are committed to working hard for the full implementation of SCR 2231 and urge all sides to do the same. It is in everyone's interest to show restraint and avoid any actions that would undermine this vital pillar of the non-proliferation regime and of our collective security."

"France, Germany and the United Kingdom stress their commitment to the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2231 and the preservation of the JCPOA, which we believe contributes to reducing tensions in the region as well as global nuclear non-proliferation," he statement said.

"We are committed to working hard for the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2231 and urge all sides to do the same. It is in everyone's interests to show restraint and avoid any actions that would undermine this vital pillar of the non-proliferation regime and of our collective security."