Britain and France are set to host talks this week on launching a “purely defensive” naval mission to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
French President Emmanuel Macron said the proposed mission would aim to unite European and other willing nations under a peaceful, multinational framework. Writing on social media platform X, he emphasized that the operation would remain separate from ongoing conflicts in the region and could be deployed once conditions allow.
The initiative comes amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf, following the United States’ announcement of a naval blockade targeting Iranian ports and Tehran’s retaliatory move to effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz. Nearly one-fifth of global oil consumption passes through the narrow waterway, making any disruption a major concern for the global economy.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned that prolonged closure of the strait is severely impacting international shipping and driving up the cost of living worldwide.
In a statement on X, Starmer said the UK and France would co-host a conference involving multiple countries to develop a coordinated, independent plan to ensure maritime security in the region once hostilities subside.
Britain had earlier convened a meeting with representatives from more than 40 countries to address the issue, although the United States did not participate in that discussion.
The proposed mission reflects growing international concern over maintaining stability in a vital global trade artery as geopolitical tensions intensify.
