Britain will host a virtual meeting on Thursday aimed at forming a coalition of countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump that securing the strategic waterway was the responsibility of other nations.
Meeting Details and Participants
The session, chaired by British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper, will bring together around 35 countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. The United States is not scheduled to participate. The talks will take place around midday London time and are intended to explore diplomatic and practical measures to restore freedom of navigation in the area.
Background: Strait of Hormuz Closure
Iran has effectively shut down the Strait, a vital maritime corridor that carries about a fifth of the world’s oil consumption, in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli strikes that began in late February. Reopening the waterway has become a global priority as the closure contributes to soaring energy prices.
Focus on Mines and Tanker Protection
The UK-led talks will initially focus on clearing mines from the Strait, followed by measures to protect tankers passing through the area. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that reopening the waterway would require “a united front of military strength and diplomatic activity” alongside cooperation with the shipping industry. European countries, which initially resisted sending naval forces over concerns of being drawn into the conflict, have become more willing to participate due to the rising global energy costs.
U.S. Position
President Trump previously stated that the Strait of Hormuz could open “naturally” and insisted that countries dependent on the waterway should ensure its security themselves. “Just take it, protect it, use it for yourselves,” Trump said, adding that nations should “build up some delayed courage” to safeguard the strategic passage.
Next Steps
Thursday’s meeting marks the first formal gathering of the coalition. Officials expect that more detailed discussions involving military planners will follow in the coming weeks to develop concrete plans for reopening and securing the Strait after a ceasefire has been achieved.
With information from Reuters.
