The United Kingdom is spearheading a coalition of 35 countries in a bid to restore navigation through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been severely disrupted due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that a virtual meeting, chaired by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, will bring together nearly three dozen nations to discuss coordinated diplomatic and political measures. The talks will focus on restoring freedom of navigation, ensuring the safety of stranded ships and sailors, and resuming the supply of essential goods.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to global oceans, has seen a near halt in maritime traffic due to alleged attacks and threats by Iranian forces targeting commercial vessels. This disruption has significantly impacted global oil supply chains, pushing energy prices sharply upward.
Notably, the United States will not participate in the meeting. President Donald Trump has stated that securing the waterway is not America’s responsibility, urging allied nations to manage their own energy security.
Amid the escalating conflict, Iran has reportedly deployed drones, missiles, and naval mines against shipping targets, creating a high-risk environment that has deterred direct military intervention by other nations.
However, Starmer indicated that military planners from participating countries are expected to convene soon to explore post-conflict security arrangements for the waterway.
Countries including France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates have already signed a joint statement urging Iran to cease its blockade efforts and pledging support for ensuring safe maritime transit.
The initiative is being compared to the post-Ukraine war “coalition of the willing,” signaling a broader shift in global security dynamics. It also reflects growing European efforts to strengthen independent defense capabilities, particularly following Trump’s repeated threats to reconsider the US role in NATO.
Thursday’s meeting is seen as an initial step, with further working-level discussions expected to finalize a comprehensive action plan in the coming weeks.
