French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer are leading discussions with international allies on a proposed multinational mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz once the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel comes to an end.
The planned initiative, discussed during a high-level meeting of roughly 30 countries, is aimed at ensuring long-term freedom of navigation and stabilising global energy and trade routes that have been disrupted by the blockade of the critical waterway.
Iran imposed the blockade at the onset of hostilities, triggering a surge in global energy prices and raising concerns over supply chains. In response, the United States has also imposed restrictions on Iranian ports, further intensifying tensions in the region.
European leaders say the continued disruption could have severe global consequences, including rising inflation, food shortages, and aviation disruptions linked to jet fuel supply constraints.
The proposed mission would be strictly defensive in nature and would only be deployed after the conflict ends and conditions are considered stable. Its focus would include protecting commercial shipping lanes and supporting mine clearance operations.
Officials involved in the planning emphasised that the initiative would require clear commitments from all parties to ensure safe passage through the strait, including assurances that ships would not be targeted or obstructed.
The meeting also reflects broader European efforts to play a more active role in post-conflict security arrangements, after being largely sidelined in earlier diplomatic phases of the war.
Key European powers, including Germany and Italy, have expressed willingness in principle to participate, although some leaders cautioned that significant planning and consensus are still required before deployment becomes feasible.
UK officials said preparatory work for a combined military effort is already underway, with further discussions expected among military chiefs in the coming weeks.
France has described the proposal as a “third way” between continued pressure and renewed escalation, aimed at preventing a return to open conflict while maintaining stability in global shipping lanes.
Erizia Rubyjeana
