By Gloria Nosa
The United Kingdom and France are set to convene military discussions involving about 30 countries aimed at reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to a British defence official.
The talks come amid mounting concerns over global energy supply disruptions after the waterway was largely closed following the escalation of hostilities involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Last week, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Netherlands jointly signalled readiness to support efforts to guarantee safe navigation through the strait. The statement was later backed by an additional 24 nations.
A British defence source said chiefs of defence staff from the expanded group are expected to hold further military-to-military discussions later this week to coordinate a joint response.
The UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Richard Knighton, previously chaired an initial meeting involving the six nations along with Canada. He is reportedly working closely with Fabien Mandon to develop a coordinated strategy.
Officials said additional countries may be invited as the coalition expands. The aim is to build a unified plan capable of restoring shipping operations in the waterway as quickly as conditions allow.
Reports indicate that the UK has offered to host a broader summit either in London or at the naval port of Portsmouth to finalise operational details and strengthen the coalition.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass in normal times, has become a focal point of the crisis. Iran has restricted movement through the route since the outbreak of conflict on February 28, causing a spike in global energy prices.
An international coalition may also address the reported deployment of naval mines in the area, which several countries have accused Tehran of laying to block passage.
Iran has stated that “non-hostile vessels” could still transit the strait under certain safety conditions, according to a message shared with the International Maritime Organization. However, the same communication warned that vessels linked to what Tehran described as “aggressor parties,” including the United States and Israel, would not be permitted safe passage.
