The United Kingdom (UK) and France are leading preparations for a multinational military mission aimed at securing vital shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, amid rising regional tensions.
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More than 30 countries are participating in a two-day planning conference at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, London. Military planners are working to finalise a coordinated strategy to reopen the key maritime corridor and ensure safe passage for commercial vessels once conditions allow.
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The proposed mission is expected to focus on protecting merchant shipping, clearing naval mines, and restoring confidence among global shipping companies. Officials have described the initiative as defensive in nature, designed to support maritime security and stabilise international trade flows.
The effort is being spearheaded by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, building on earlier diplomatic discussions held in Paris involving more than 50 countries. That meeting called for the immediate reopening of the waterway and endorsed the creation of a coordinated international response.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the goal of the conference is to translate diplomatic consensus into an actionable military plan. He emphasized that freedom of navigation in the strait is essential for global trade, energy security, and economic stability.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, handling nearly a fifth of global oil shipments. Recent disruptions have led to increased energy prices and concerns over supply chains worldwide.
Officials noted that the multinational mission would rely on shared capabilities, coordination, and deployment strategies among participating nations. Discussions are also focusing on command structures and operational readiness in the region.
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The initiative comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, with concerns over restricted access to the waterway prompting urgent international action to safeguard maritime routes and maintain global economic stability.