France, UK to host meeting on Hormuz maritime security

France and the UK on Friday began co-hosting an international meeting in Paris to discuss a proposed maritime initiative aimed at securing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the region continue to disrupt global shipping.

The meeting, chaired by French President Emmanual Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is bringing together representatives from 30 to 40 countries, with participation largely taking place via video link.

The talks focus on a coordinated international effort to make sure that the passage of commercial vessels is safe through the strategic waterway, which remains one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.

Defensive scope

French officials have indicated that the proposed mission would be limited in scope and focused on maritime security.

In an effort to avoid further escalation, Macron stressed that the initiative would be “strictly defensive” and involve non-belligerent actors.

Starmer, meanwhile, emphasized the urgency of restoring navigation through the strait, highlighting the broader economic and security implications of the crisis.

Both Paris and London have signalled that the initiative is not intended to form part of a broader military confrontation, with British officials previously ruling out participation in any blockade scenario.

Objectives

According to officials, discussions are exploring the creation of a multinational maritime mechanism that could be activated once conditions on the ground allow.

The broader aim is to restore freedom of navigation in the strait of Hormuz, reassure global energy markets and insurers, and stabilize shipping flows.

Potential measures include coordinating naval presence, escorting commercial vessels, and enhancing intelligence-sharing among participating countries.

The meeting comes amid a deepening crisis in the strait, following heightened tensions between Iran, the US and Israel.

Against the current situation, the Paris meeting is seen as part of wider diplomatic efforts led by European countries to contain the crisis and prepare for a potential post-escalation framework to secure the waterway.