Britain says 40 countries discuss reopening Strait of Hormuz after Iran blockade
Britain is leading a discussion among approximately 40 countries to coordinate action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to end Iran's "reckless" blockade which is impacting global economic security and commodity supplies.
Britain is leading a major international diplomatic effort involving over 40 countries to address Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping chokepoint. The virtual meeting convened by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper on April 2, 2026, brought together nations including France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and India to coordinate political and diplomatic measures to reopen the vital waterway. The blockade resulted from Iran's actions following U.S.-Israeli strikes, with Iran effectively closing the strait and attacking commercial ships, causing global oil prices to spike dramatically.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper accused Iran of "holding the world's economy hostage" by restricting access to the strait, which carries approximately 20% of global energy supplies. The meeting focused on diplomatic solutions rather than military intervention, with participating countries signing a joint statement demanding Iran cease its blockade and pledging contributions to ensure safe passage. The discussions addressed measures to protect approximately 20,000 seafarers aboard 2,000 ships currently trapped by the conflict.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that opening the strait by force is "unrealistic" and stated that any reopening "can only be done in coordination with Iran" through negotiations following a potential ceasefire. This reflects the international consensus that no country is willing to attempt a military solution while fighting continues, given Iran's possession of anti-ship missiles, drones, attack craft, and mines in the region.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called reopening the strait "the single most effective way to bring down energy prices," noting that the blockade has caused "unsustainable" spikes in oil and food prices affecting households and businesses globally. The UK-led initiative aims to create a "united front of military strength and diplomatic activity" with the maritime industry, though officials acknowledge that resuming normal traffic "will not be easy" given the complex geopolitical situation.
The United States is notably not participating in the talks, with former President Donald Trump stating it's not America's responsibility. The economic consequences are severe, with the blockade strangling global oil supplies and disrupting commodity flows, prompting Gulf nations to shift to alternative pipeline routes while the international community seeks diplomatic solutions to this critical maritime crisis.
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