French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are leading a gathering of approximately 40 non-belligerent nations to address the growing instability in the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting, held via video conference with many participants joining remotely, focuses on ensuring safe passage through the strategic waterway amid escalating tensions. Both an Iranian blockade and a retaliatory U.S. response have disrupted shipping, contributing to what experts call the most severe oil price surge in recent history.
The discussions aim to foster diplomatic cooperation among neutral states seeking to de-escalate the situation without direct military involvement. By bringing together international stakeholders, the Paris-hosted forum represents a coordinated effort to uphold maritime security and prevent further economic disruption. The initiative underscores the importance of multilateral dialogue in managing regional crises that impact global markets.