United Kingdom and France will this week co-host talks aimed at restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The discussions will bring together countries willing to join a peaceful multinational effort focused on safeguarding shipping in the vital waterway.

Defensive Naval Mission Proposal

Emmanuel Macron said the talks would include consideration of a strictly defensive naval mission.

“This strictly defensive mission, which will be separate from the warring parties, is intended to be deployed as soon as the situation allows,” Macron said in a post on X.

Rising Tensions in the Gulf

Tensions in the Gulf have escalated after the United States said it would begin a blockade of maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, while Iran has effectively shut the Strait.

The waterway carries about a fifth of global oil consumption, making disruptions a major concern for international markets.

Starmer Warns of Global Impact

Keir Starmer said the continued closure of the Strait was damaging global shipping and contributing to cost-of-living pressures.

“This week the UK and France will co-host a summit to advance work on a coordinated, independent, multinational plan to safeguard international shipping when the conflict ends,” Starmer posted on X.

Britain has previously convened representatives from more than 40 countries with the shared aim of restoring freedom of navigation, though the United States was not involved in those talks.

(with inputs from Reuters)