The UK will hold discussions with over 30 countries on how to reopen the Strait of Hormuz

The UK is set to convene talks with 30 or so countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Reuters reports that British Foreign Secretary Cooper will chair an online consultation with 35 countries on Thursday (April 2nd) at noon. The participating countries include France, Germany, Italy, Canada and the United Arab Emirates. At that time, all parties will discuss how to restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States is expected not to attend the meeting. US President Trump stated in his national speech on Wednesday (1st) that the Strait of Hormuz might "naturally" reopen, and the responsibility for ensuring the smooth flow of this crucial oil transportation channel should fall on the countries that rely on this waterway.

After the US and Israel launched a military strike against Iran in late February, Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz as a retaliatory measure against the joint air strike by the US and Israel. This move has led to a sharp increase in global energy prices, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz has become an urgent priority for governments around the world.

British Prime Minister Straw said on Wednesday that the consultation meeting will assess all feasible diplomatic and political measures that can be taken to restore the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Due to concerns about getting involved in the conflict, European countries initially refused Trump's request to send the navy to escort ships in the Strait of Hormuz. However, according to European officials, in the face of rising energy costs and economic shocks, the countries hope to form an alliance to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a ceasefire agreement is reached.

An European official stated that for the first phase of any plan to reopen the strait, efforts will be made to ensure the removal of mines from the Strait of Hormuz; the second phase aims to protect oil tankers passing through this area.

Stammer said that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is by no means an easy task. It requires "a united front of military power and diplomatic actions", and also cooperation with the shipping industry.