London (TDI): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the United Kingdom will host a multilateral meeting involving around 35 countries to discuss efforts aimed at reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, amid disruptions caused by ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The discussions will be led by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and will focus on identifying diplomatic and political measures to restore freedom of navigation, ensure the safety of commercial vessels and seafarers, and resume the flow of essential global commodities.
Starmer said that, following the talks, military planners would also be consulted to evaluate how participating countries could coordinate resources to make the waterway secure once hostilities subside. He added that the issue remains complex and that reopening the strait will not be easy.
The meeting is expected to include countries that have expressed willingness to contribute to securing maritime routes, including France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom itself, according to AFP.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas is transported, has been severely affected by the ongoing regional conflict that began with strikes involving Iran and United States alongside its allies. Disruptions have contributed to rising global energy prices and heightened concerns over supply security.
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Starmer stressed the importance of international cooperation in addressing the crisis, noting that maintaining open and secure maritime routes is essential for global economic stability.
In addition to the maritime discussions, the UK leader reaffirmed his country’s strong support for NATO, responding to renewed criticism from US President Donald Trump, who has questioned the alliance’s effectiveness. Starmer described NATO as a crucial and historically successful defense partnership that continues to play a vital role in global security.
Read More: Trump Seeks End to Iran War Without Insisting on Strait of Hormuz Reopening
The initiative reflects growing international concern over the stability of key shipping lanes and the broader geopolitical implications of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
