The United States and the United Kingdom are organizing a high-level meeting in London next week to discuss forming an international coalition aimed at protecting maritime shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, according to two European diplomats and additional sources familiar with the matter. The specific date and agenda for the meeting are still being finalized, and it is expected to include defense ministers and military leaders from Western nations and regional countries.
A White House official confirmed the intention to hold the conference next week, while the British embassy in Washington did not provide comments. This initiative follows recent Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which have prompted the U.S. to conduct daily strikes against Iranian military targets along the southern coast of Iran.
In the past four days, there have been no reported Iranian attacks on commercial vessels, with some U.S. defense officials suggesting that U.S. military actions have significantly diminished Iran's capabilities in the area. However, other officials maintain that Iran retains the ability to target ships.
President Trump has issued threats to bomb Iranian infrastructure if attacks on ships continue, to which Iran has responded with warnings against U.S. allies in the Gulf region. The recent escalation in the Strait of Hormuz follows unsuccessful negotiations involving Oman, Iran, and Qatar, which aimed to establish a new arrangement for the area.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that discussions are ongoing with various parties, including Pakistan, regarding U.S.-Iran relations and maritime security in the Strait. He emphasized that Iran will continue to protect its interests and will not yield to U.S. pressure.
The U.S. aims to build on previous discussions held by the U.K. and France with other nations about creating a coalition for the Strait of Hormuz. A key requirement for many countries is the cessation of hostilities in the strait to ensure a safe environment for international maritime operations.