Will force be used to reopen Strait of Hormuz?

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.

The UK will host a meeting of 35 countries on Thursday to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route blocked by Iran. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the meeting aims to assess diplomatic and political measures to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of ships and seafarers, and resume the movement of commodities. The US was not invited to the meeting. The participating countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Japan, and others, previously signed a joint statement committing to ensuring safe passage through the strait. Following the meeting, British military planners will explore how to make the strait accessible and safe after hostilities cease, acknowledging the challenges involved in the clear-up operation.

In April 2026, the UK convened a virtual summit in London with approximately 35 countries to address the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting, led by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, focused on strategies to persuade Iran to reopen the crucial waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital trade route in the Persian Gulf, connecting Middle Eastern oil and gas producers to global markets in Asia, Europe, and North America. Roughly 20% of the world's traded crude oil and a similar proportion of natural gas pass through this strategic chokepoint. The closure has significant global implications for trade and energy supply.

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.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will host a meeting on Monday at Downing Street to discuss the impact of the Middle East war. The meeting will include senior government and military officials, as well as leaders from the energy, shipping, finance, and insurance sectors. Discussions will focus on the consequences of Iran's actions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, including rising oil prices and increased costs across various industries. Representatives from companies like Shell, BP, Centrica, Maersk, CMA, HSBC, Goldman Sachs, and Lloyd's of London are expected to attend. Commander Maritime Operations will provide an update on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and the broader Middle East, highlighting the effects on shipping and navigation.

In April 2026, the Strait of Hormuz is partially blocked by Iran following a joint US-Israeli offensive. Approximately 3,000 vessels are stranded, leading to accusations that Iran is holding the global economy hostage. The UK hosted a meeting of 40 countries to discuss the situation and potential responses to the blockade. The meeting concluded with an agreement for further consultations, but no concrete actions were decided. The central question is how vital shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz should be governed during wartime. Experts are debating the legality and potential consequences of using force to reopen the waterway.

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.

U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke on Sunday regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East, specifically focusing on the blocked Strait of Hormuz. The leaders agreed that reopening the strait, a vital route for global oil supply, was essential for global energy market stability. The Strait has been blocked by Iran since coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian targets on February 28, triggering a broader regional war. Trump had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on March 21 demanding the strait's reopening, threatening further action if it was not met. The conversation signals a potential improvement in relations between Trump and Starmer, who previously disagreed on the use of UK military bases in the conflict.

On day 23 of the US-Israeli war on Iran, tensions escalated as Israel launched new attacks on Tehran following Iranian missile strikes on Israel that injured nearly 100 people. President Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iranian power plants if the Strait of Hormuz isn't reopened within 48 hours, prompting Iran to vow retaliation and threaten attacks on US and Israeli energy infrastructure. Iran claimed to have intercepted a US-Israeli drone and shot down an Israeli fighter jet, while accusing Israel and the US of attacking the Natanz nuclear site. The IAEA confirmed no radiation leak. Iran's president called on the BRICS alliance to intervene and proposed a regional security framework. Iranian state media reported over 1,500 deaths and nearly 21,000 injuries due to US-Israeli attacks.

Facing a Monday deadline from US President Trump to end its partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran is threatened with the obliteration of its power plants. Trump's ultimatum, issued due to rising fuel prices after Iran's retaliatory actions in the Gulf, demands the country open the crucial waterway through which a significant portion of the world's oil flows. In response, Iran's military command has vowed to strike power plants and infrastructure in Israel and regional countries hosting US bases or companies with American shareholders if Trump follows through with his threat. The situation unfolds amidst escalating tensions, with Israel signaling a potential ground campaign into Lebanon to combat Hezbollah, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

Iran has denied launching missiles at the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia, dismissing claims as an Israeli "false flag" operation. The denial follows reports in US media outlets alleging a missile launch between Thursday night and Friday morning that failed to hit the base. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the accusations are disinformation, noting that even NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte did not confirm Israel's claim that Iranian intercontinental ballistic missiles were used. Confirmation of Iran's involvement would suggest the country possesses missiles with a range exceeding 4,000km, capable of reaching London, despite Iran's previous claims of limiting missile range to under 2,000km.

Iran launched ballistic missiles towards the UK-US Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean, nearly 4,000km from its coast, signaling its continued capabilities amidst ongoing conflict. The launch, occurring after three weeks of US-Israeli bombardment, demonstrates a missile range exceeding previous estimates of 3,000km for Iranian medium-range ballistic missiles. While a UK official stated the attack was unsuccessful, experts note the significance of Iran's ability to strike such a distant target. The Diego Garcia base is a military facility used by the US for missions related to the conflict with Iran. This action suggests Iran aims to demonstrate its strategic reach despite facing military pressure.

Recent claims by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) allege that Iran possesses missiles capable of reaching European cities like London, with a range of approximately 4,000km. This follows reports that Iran targeted the joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, about 3,800km from Iran. While details of the Diego Garcia incident remain limited, reports suggest one missile was intercepted and another failed mid-flight. The UK government, while condemning the attack, has taken a different stance than the US and Israel on the broader conflict. Initially hesitant, the UK now permits the use of its bases for strikes against Iranian sites targeting British allies and interests, including missile launchers threatening commercial shipping.

In March 2026, President Trump ordered the US military to postpone strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. This decision followed what Trump described as "good and productive conversations" with Tehran. According to Al Jazeera's Alan Fisher, this postponement could offer Trump an "off-ramp" from potential war with Iran, despite the US not pursuing regime change. The strikes were planned against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure. The reason for the postponement was to allow for further diplomatic engagement between the US and Iran.

President Trump claimed "very good" talks with Iran were underway, potentially mediated by Pakistan, to avert a U.S. bombing ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement came shortly before U.S. markets opened, amidst concerns about Iran's closure of the strait. Trump vaguely described the deal's terms, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and potential regime change. However, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the reported Iranian interlocutor, denied any negotiations and accused Trump of manipulating markets. Despite the denials, Iran acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries, including Pakistan, suggesting a renewed diplomatic push involving regional powers like Egypt and Turkey. The goal appears to be de-escalation and preventing further economic damage.

Amidst an ongoing war that began in late February 2026, the possibility of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran has emerged, though Iran denies any talks are underway. The U.S., under President Trump, has presented a 15-point plan to Iran through Pakistan, while Pakistan, Egypt, and Gulf Arab nations are attempting to facilitate discussions. Despite these efforts, Israel vows to continue attacks, and military deployments from both the U.S. and Iran are increasing, suggesting an escalation of the conflict. The U.S. war objectives have shifted, including degrading Iran's missile capabilities, preventing nuclear weapon development, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump hints at engagement with Iranian leaders, Israel maintains the goal of regime change in Iran.

On day 21 of the US-Israel attacks against Iran, tensions are escalating, with Iran warning of "zero restraint" if its energy facilities are targeted again after Israel struck the South Pars gasfield. Iran retaliated with attacks on Haifa, Israel, and Ras Laffan, Qatar, also launching missile and drone strikes on US bases and Israeli cities. The conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian toll in Iran, with thousands injured and over 1,400 deaths reported. Disruptions to energy supplies have caused global oil and gas prices to surge. France is seeking UN Security Council action to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil and gas chokepoint. The role of the US Ramstein Air Base in Germany is also under scrutiny by Iran.

Following an Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield, Iran retaliated by striking Qatar's Ras Laffan gas complex, impacting nearly 20% of Qatar's LNG export capacity and causing global market instability. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi warned of "zero restraint" if Iran's energy infrastructure is targeted again. Israel confirmed its Bazan Group refinery was also hit in a claimed Iranian strike. Amidst warnings of a potential energy crisis, President Trump denied coordinating the initial Israeli attack and stated he told Netanyahu to cease such actions. Despite deploying Marines to the region, Trump suggested he would not send ground troops to Iran, even as reports indicate the US military is considering further actions, including securing oil tanker passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid escalating tensions, a fire broke out at Kuwait's Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery on Friday following a drone attack, a day after Qatar's Ras Laffan facility was hit. These incidents occurred after Iran vowed retaliation for an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field on Wednesday. Despite calls from European leaders to cease targeting Gulf energy infrastructure, Iran has continued its strikes and asserted its missile production remains unaffected. The escalating damage to Gulf infrastructure has caused a spike in oil and gas prices, raising concerns about potential long-term disruptions to global supplies. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims Iran's missile manufacturing capabilities are diminished, Iran maintains otherwise.

In March 2026, the UK government authorized the US military to use British bases for strikes against Iranian missile sites. This decision follows Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and strikes against British allies in the Middle East. Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially resisted the US request, citing the need to ensure the legality of military action. However, he later approved the use of RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia for US defensive operations aimed at degrading Iran's missile capabilities. The agreement allows the US to use UK bases for collective self-defense in the region, specifically targeting missile sites used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The decision came after a meeting of British ministers to discuss the war with Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

In March 2026, the UK reported that Iran launched ballistic missiles at the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. According to the UK, the missile attack was unsuccessful. The UK government condemned Iran's actions, describing them as reckless. Diego Garcia, a strategically important location, has been identified as a potential target. The reason for the attack was not explicitly stated in the report.

Iran reportedly launched two intermediate-range ballistic missiles toward Diego Garcia, a U.S.-U.K. military base in the Indian Ocean, on Friday. The alleged launch, approximately 2,500 miles from Iran, suggests that Iran's missile capabilities exceed previously stated limits. Prior to Operation Epic Fury on February 28th, Iranian officials claimed their missiles had a range below 2,000 km. An Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson stated the missiles had a 4,000 km range and were capable of reaching European capitals. Experts suggest this action proves the Trump administration's concerns about Iran's missile capabilities were justified and that Iran's missile program poses a significant threat.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured US support for strikes against Iran, a long-sought goal. The attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Lebanon, with regional spillover effects. The conflict has triggered economic consequences, including rising oil prices, and political divisions within the US and between the US and its allies. Despite these global repercussions, the article suggests the war could benefit Netanyahu by addressing his long-standing concerns about the Iranian threat. Netanyahu has consistently portrayed Iran as an existential threat to Israel, and this conflict allows him to confront it with US backing, something he has sought for years. The ultimate outcome of the war remains uncertain.

President Trump reportedly expressed displeasure to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding an Israeli strike on a gas field. The strike's impact caused significant disruption in energy markets. Trump's complaint suggests a divergence in strategy between the two nations. However, Israeli officials claim that the U.S. government was notified in advance of the operation. The discrepancy between Trump's reaction and Israel's assertion raises questions about the coordination and communication between the two allied countries regarding the strike. The incident highlights potential disagreements on military actions and their impact on global markets.

As hopes for regime change in Iran fade, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a political test. Netanyahu, who has long positioned himself as Israel's defender against Iran, launched a direct war on the regime. Despite extravagant rhetoric about a "fateful campaign," the Iranian regime remains in place. Netanyahu now claims the war has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East in Israel's favor, even without regime change. Some interpret this as a sign Israel is preparing to end the war, amid concerns about rising oil prices. The war's outcome will likely impact Netanyahu's political standing, as his career is deeply tied to his stance against Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his desire to "create conditions" for regime change in Iran. He made this announcement during a press conference on March 13, 2026, his first since the start of the war two weeks prior. Netanyahu indicated that Israel's attacks on Iran are intended to contribute to this goal. The Prime Minister did not elaborate on the specific conditions he hoped to establish or the methods Israel would employ to achieve regime change. The press conference provided insight into Israel's strategic objectives regarding Iran amidst ongoing conflict.

In a news conference on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "stronger than ever" amidst its ongoing war with Iran, alongside the United States, which began on February 28. Netanyahu claimed the attacks have severely damaged Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects, killed top nuclear scientists, and inflicted damage on the IRGC and Basij forces. He asserted that the war has prevented Iran from moving its nuclear projects underground. Netanyahu also addressed Iranian protesters, expressing support while emphasizing their role in changing their government. He further stated that the war has enabled Israel to forge new alliances in the region, despite Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries.

In a recent press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following joint air strikes with the US. Netanyahu stated that Iran has suffered significant blows to its Revolutionary Guards Corps and Basij paramilitary force since the start of the war. He vowed continued attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon after they retaliated for Israel's killing of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. When questioned about potential actions against Mojtaba Khamenei and Hezbollah's chief, Netanyahu declined to provide specifics but suggested neither should feel secure. He described the new Supreme Leader as a "puppet of the Revolutionary Guards" who is unable to appear in public.