US allies prepare “Plan B” to ensure navigation through Strait of Hormuz

US allies are exploring alternative options to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz without direct US involvement, Bloomberg reports, citing sources.

On Thursday, April 2, the United Kingdom hosted a virtual meeting attended by more than 40 countries from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as Australia and Canada.

Sources say several countries see securing the strait as a key issue in potential US-Iran ceasefire negotiations. The coalition has begun preparing a scenario in which the matter would need to be resolved without Washington, amid concerns that President Donald Trump could end the military operation without a separate plan to guarantee navigation.

According to Bloomberg, discussions included diplomatic contacts with Tehran, possible economic measures including sanctions if Iran refuses to unblock the strait, the role of the UN, and coordination with Gulf partners to restore freedom of navigation. Previously, Trump stated that countries dependent on the Strait of Hormuz must ensure its security themselves, adding that the US “does not need this route” and suggesting the strait would reopen naturally after the conflict ends.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the US president is considering concluding the military campaign while maintaining restrictions on navigation and Iran’s influence, to avoid extending the conflict beyond the planned four to six weeks. In mid-March, over 30 countries, including the UK, France, and Japan, expressed willingness to facilitate safe passage through the strait.

Following the start of US and Israeli military operations, Iran announced the closure of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Before the escalation, 15–20% of global crude oil, condensate, and petroleum product shipments, and more than 30% of LNG, passed through the strait. Analysts cited by Bloomberg warn that if the strait remains closed until June, oil prices could reach a record $200 per barrel.