UK Leads 35-Nation Talks to Reopen Hormuz Strait, U.S. Not Invited
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a high-level meeting with leaders from 35 countries to seek diplomatic and strategic solutions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz one of the world’s most critical oil and gas transit routes, currently disrupted amid rising conflict.
The talks, held on Thursday (April 2), will focus on coordinated maritime security and restoring freedom of navigation after Iran reportedly restricted access in response to strikes linked to the United States and Israel. Notably, the U.S. has not been invited to participate directly, with the meeting centered on partner nations and maritime allies.
Starmer warned that restoring stability will take time, even if active fighting subsides. Reports indicate that more than 1,000 commercial vessels are currently stranded in the area, increasing pressure on global food and energy supply chains.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has maintained a hardline stance, signaling continued military pressure on Iran until control over the strategic waterway is relinquished.
The UK government emphasized that ensuring freedom of navigation remains a top priority, as the situation continues to impact global trade and economic stability.