Britain says 40 countries discuss reopening Strait of Hormuz after Iran blockade

Following an Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Britain convened a virtual meeting of approximately 40 countries, including France, Germany, Canada, the UAE, and India, to discuss joint action to reopen the vital waterway. British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper stated that Iran's actions were holding the global economy hostage and impacting global economic security. The meeting occurred after President Trump suggested that securing the Strait, which carries a fifth of the world's oil consumption, was the responsibility of other nations. The United States did not participate in the discussions, which aim to address the rising energy prices resulting from the Strait's closure, which Iran enacted in response to US-Israeli strikes.

A coalition of countries, led by the UK, is forming to address the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian actions have trapped ships and threatened global economic security. A virtual summit of over 40 countries, excluding the US, was convened to discuss diplomatic, economic, and security measures to reopen the vital shipping lane. The UK foreign secretary condemned Iran's attacks on vessels and highlighted the potential for widespread food insecurity and economic disruption due to the blockage. Military planners will meet next week to discuss clearing mines and coordinating defensive capabilities to ensure the safe passage of ships and seafarers. The goal is to restore access to the strait, which is crucial for global oil and gas supplies.

Due to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz since February 28, 2026, the UK is hosting virtual talks with over 40 countries to discuss strategies for reopening the waterway. The Strait is a critical passage for 20% of the world's oil and LNG supplies. The blockade, prompted by US-Israeli strikes on Tehran, has caused global oil prices to surge by 40%, leading to fuel rationing and industrial production cuts, particularly in Asia. The US is not participating, with President Trump stating it's not their responsibility. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is chairing the meeting, which includes countries like France, Germany, Canada and the UAE, all of whom previously expressed readiness to ensure safe passage through the Strait.

A UK-led coalition of 40 countries convened to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route blocked due to escalating tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel. The virtual summit, chaired by the UK, aimed to explore diplomatic and political measures to ensure safe passage through the waterway, which is critical for global oil flow. Iran's attacks on commercial ships have halted traffic, causing petroleum prices to surge. While the US is not participating, countries including the UK, France, Germany, and the UAE have demanded Iran cease its actions and pledged to contribute to securing the strait. The meeting is considered an initial step, with further working-level discussions planned to develop specific strategies.