France Coordinates 35 Nations via Video Call
On Thursday, French officials held video calls with representatives from 35 countries to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The Defence Ministry emphasized that the initiative is defensive and separate from ongoing military operations.
“This initiative, independent of current military actions, is strictly defensive,” the ministry said. Its purpose is to organize the safe resumption of shipping once hostilities cease. This videoconference demonstrates France’s effort to play a key role in securing one of the world’s most strategic maritime chokepoints.
US-Iran Oil Transit Agreement
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced that Iran agreed to allow ten oil tankers, including some flying the Pakistan flag, to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking at a White House Cabinet meeting, Trump called the move a “present” from Iran.
“They said, to show that they are serious, we can have eight boats of oil… It ended up being ten,” Trump added. This limited cooperation comes amid ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran. It also signals a cautious step toward easing tensions in the region.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It carries 20–21 million barrels of oil daily, about 20–25 percent of global seaborne oil trade. Major exporters include Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, the UAE, and Iran.
In addition, the strait transports significant liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar and other Gulf states. Any disruption can spike global oil prices and affect major importers such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. Beyond energy, the strait is vital for trade, supporting trillions of dollars in global commerce each year.
Regional Diplomacy and De-escalation Efforts
Turkey has actively engaged in talks to stabilize the Middle East. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan traveled to Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Doha to coordinate a strategy to reduce tensions.
Pakistan is also pushing for peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for negotiations between the US and Iran to prevent escalation. However, Iran has set strict conditions for talks, including compensation for losses caused by recent US-Israel strikes that killed Iranian officers.
Global Concern for Stability
The international community is closely watching developments in the Strait of Hormuz. France, the US, Turkey, and Pakistan are coordinating efforts to maintain maritime security and protect global trade. Any misstep could have far-reaching effects on energy markets and regional stability.
