Hormuz Crisis: UK Leads 35-Nation Talks Without US

The United Kingdom and France will host a 35-country conference on Thursday aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz after Iran blocked the waterway, officials said. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the meeting, and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to lead the discussions. Officials said the objective is to assemble a coordinated international approach centered on restoring freedom of navigation through the strait.

 

In a statement from the Prime Minister's office, the UK said the conference will examine “all viable diplomatic and political measures.” Officials said immediate priorities include protecting commercial vessels that are currently unable to pass through the corridor and ensuring the safety of their crews. Another stated focus is restarting shipments of key commodities that typically move through the strait.

 

The talks will take place without the United States, underscoring a difference in approach among Western partners. U.S. President Donald Trump has said that securing the strait is the responsibility of other countries, and he has criticized European nations for not providing more support for American military operations against Tehran. Officials framed the European-led effort around de-escalation and political engagement rather than a more confrontational posture.

 

Officials described Thursday’s gathering as the next step in a joint British-French push to address the immediate navigation disruption in the Persian Gulf. By bringing together a broad group of countries, the UK and France are seeking to build common ground for a non-military response to the escalating situation. Officials presented the decision to proceed without Washington as a practical way to widen diplomatic options, while also highlighting differing transatlantic priorities on Iran.

 

The economic stakes are linked to the strait’s role in global energy and commodity flows. The Strait of Hormuz was described as the world’s most important chokepoint for oil, with nearly a third of all seaborne crude oil and a significant portion of global liquefied natural gas passing through it daily. Starmer said there is urgency in restoring the movement of these commodities, reflecting concerns that a prolonged disruption could ripple through energy markets and the wider economy.

 

Officials said attention will focus on whether the meeting produces a joint communique or a concrete action plan. While the conference is intended to advance a diplomatic resolution, it remains unclear what specific measures participating countries will agree to and how quickly any steps could translate into safer passage and resumed trade.

 

Officials indicated the direction set on Thursday will be closely watched as governments and market participants assess whether the crisis eases or intensifies in the weeks ahead.