London [UK]: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to host a virtual meeting of world leaders to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and secure vital global shipping routes, CNN reported.
Leaders from around 40 countries are expected to participate, with discussions focused on supporting the fragile ceasefire involving Iran and ensuring safe passage through the strategic maritime corridor.
According to the British Prime Minister’s Office, talks will include plans for an international mission to help reopen the strait. The proposed initiative would be defensive in nature and could involve a joint military effort once conditions allow.
The summit will also consider ways to support the International Maritime Organization in strengthening the safety of vessels and crew operating in the region.
Starmer is scheduled to arrive in Paris on Friday to co-host the meeting with Macron. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to attend, according to a German government official.
“The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to ensure energy and trade flow freely again,” Starmer is expected to say at the summit.
He is also likely to emphasise the need to reassure commercial shipping and support mine-clearance operations to stabilise maritime activity.
A German official said Berlin is prepared to contribute to securing navigation in the strait, provided there is a clear legal framework in place. Possible contributions could include mine-clearance vessels and maritime surveillance capabilities, areas in which Germany has significant expertise.
The meeting comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and concerns over disruptions to global energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz.