European leaders have set out plans for a coordinated defensive mission to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, once security conditions allow, following talks involving more than 40 countries.
The leaders of France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Germany agreed the proposal during an international video conference on Friday, aimed at ensuring the strategic waterway remains open to global shipping.
French President Emmanuel Macron said, "Recent events are encouraging, even if we should remain prudent" and welcomed Iran’s announcement on Hormuz reopening, saying it “goes in the right direction." He said countries involved could not accept “any privatisation of the Strait of Hormuz”, including “any toll system”, and confirmed a neutral, independent mission would be established. A follow-up meeting will take place in London next week.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the mission under discussion would be defensive in nature and follows the ceasefire agreement. He added that participating nations had agreed to accelerate military planning.
Starmer said around a dozen countries are prepared to contribute assets, with further details on the mission’s structure expected next week.
Friedrich Merz said Germany was willing to contribute, noting that involvement from the U.S. would also be “desirable.”
“I require a decision by the federal government, a mandate from the German Bundestag and a sound military concept,” Merz said, adding that Germany’s role could include reconnaissance and mine-clearing operations.
“We will therefore take part in the further military planning discussions that are taking place and would also like to see the United States of America participate, if possible. We believe this would be desirable,” he added.
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