Nearly three dozen nations are set to meet on Thursday in a coordinated diplomatic effort to restore movement through the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial maritime corridor which has remained largely paralysed amid the US-Israeli war against Iran. The closure of this vital oil passage has already rattled global markets, triggering a sharp rise in crude prices.ย British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the virtual meeting, chaired by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, will focus on identifying “all viable diplomatic and political measures” that can help reopen the waterway, safeguard stranded crew members and resume the shipment of essential commodities worldwide.
Iran’s attacks halt global shipping, oil prices surge
Iran’s strikes on commercial vessels and its warnings of further action have brought maritime activity in the strait to a near standstill. As a gateway linking the Persian Gulf to international waters, the closure has choked off a significant portion of the world’s oil flow which has deepened the energy crisis.
US stays out as Trump says allies should secure own oil
The United States is not part of the meeting as President Donald Trump has made it clear that securing the passage is not America’s responsibility, telling allies to “go get your own oil”. His stance has added pressure on European and Asian partners to take the lead in managing the escalating crisis.
During his White House address on Thursday, Trump reiterated that the United States has ample domestic oil and gas reserves and does not depend on the crucial maritime route. In his address to the nation, Trump also called on countries that rely heavily on the Strait of Hormuz for oil supplies to “protect and preserve” the passage.
No immediate military action but planning underway
With active conflict still ongoing, no country is prepared to forcefully reopen the strait while Iranian forces remain capable of targeting vessels with missiles, drones, mines and attack craft. However, Starmer said military planners from multiple countries will soon discuss ways to ensure safe passage once hostilities ease.
35-nation coalition demands opening of strait
A joint statement by 35 countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan and the UAE, has urged Iran to halt its attempts to obstruct the waterway. These nations have pledged to “contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage” and will follow Thursdayโs meeting with technical-level discussions to frame an action plan.
Europe aims to demonstrate unity
It is worth noting that the coordinated effort mirrors the “coalition of the willing” structure formed to support Ukraine’s security framework. European leaders also see this as a moment to show they can shoulder more responsibility for regional stability, particularly as Trump has once again hinted at the possibility of the US withdrawing from NATO.
ALSO READ:ย ‘We don’t need oil from Hormuz Strait’: Trump says countries that need must show ‘courage’ to protect it