Dozens of nations meet in London to discuss Strait of Hormuz reopening

WorldPolitics
22 Apr 2026 • 9:01 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Dozens of nations meet in London to discuss Strait of Hormuz reopening

  • Military planners from over 30 nations are convening in London for a two-day conference, co-hosted by the UK and France.
  • The objective is to plan a joint defensive mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, following a sustainable ceasefire agreement in the Iran war.
  • This mission aims to safeguard merchant vessels, reassure commercial shipping and conduct mine clearance operations in the vital waterway.
  • The effective closure of the Strait, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes, has caused a global economic shock and soaring energy prices.
  • Consequently, UK drivers have reduced car usage, some are stockpiling fuel and airlines have cancelled flights or increased fees due to rising costs.

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