A two-day meeting involving defence ministers and military commanders from more than 30 countries began in London to discuss how to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and strengthen maritime security.
Shipping through the strategic waterway has been disrupted due to the war involving Iran. With the strait seen as a crucial route for global energy supplies, the UK and France are leading efforts to shape a new coordinated plan to restore safe passage.
Although US President Donald Trump had said coalition support was not needed, around 50 countries from Europe, Asia and West Asia have expressed support for the UK-led initiative. The London gathering follows earlier consultations held via video conference.
Participants are expected to discuss measures to ensure commercial vessels can transit without fear, as well as how any joint forces would be structured, commanded and coordinated, including sharing military capabilities among countries.
Officials expect the talks to help finalise a plan to bring the route back into safe operation without delay once a lasting ceasefire is in place.
