British PM: 35 states back plan to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom will host an international diplomatic conference this week aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies.

Starmer said 35 countries have signed a joint statement committing to work together to restore maritime security along the key oil transport route, which has been disrupted amid the ongoing Iran war, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The conference will be led by Yvette Cooper, bringing together international partners to address both diplomatic and security aspects of the crisis.

He added that military planners are also working on plans to safeguard shipping in the region once hostilities end, signalling a coordinated approach to stabilisation.

“A united front of military strength and diplomatic activity” is needed to restore stability, Starmer said.

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran, targeting military and nuclear sites and killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

In retaliation, Iran’s IRGC declared the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed starting early March, banning transit for US, Israeli, and allied vessels while selectively allowing passage for non-hostile ships (mainly from China, Russia, and India).

The strait, which normally carries about 20% of global oil and significant LNG, saw daily traffic drop dramatically from over 100 vessels to just a few per day. Iran has attacked or threatened over 20 merchant ships, enforced a selective “toll” system, and used the closure as leverage.

As a result, oil prices surged above $100 per barrel, US gasoline exceeded $4/gallon, and Asian/European gas prices rose sharply. Global supply chains faced major disruptions, rerouting, and shortages.

By Aghakazim Guliyev