Britain and France Gather Coalition for Mission in the Strait of Hormuz 0 17

The United Kingdom and France will hold the first meeting at the level of defense ministers from more than 40 countries on Tuesday, May 12, to coordinate aspects of the international military mission in the Strait of Hormuz. This was reported by the UK Ministry of Defence, writes bb.lv.

In a statement, the ministry said:

"It is expected that under the leadership of the United Kingdom and France, international partners will use the meeting to discuss and define their military contributions to the defensive mission to open and ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz, as conditions allow."

The British Ministry of Defence emphasized that "the plan is purely defensive in nature" and aimed at "restoring confidence in commercial shipping on this vital trade route." It is expected that specific commitments from countries will be announced at the ministerial meeting.

On May 7, the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle arrived in the Red Sea. The Élysée Palace described this step as a demonstration of readiness to ensure security in the Strait of Hormuz. The UK Ministry of Defence, in turn, reported that the destroyer HMS Dragon will be sent to the Middle East.

Earlier, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron held a summit dedicated to the mission in the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, a two-day conference on this issue was held near London at the end of April, involving military specialists from about 40 countries. Lithuania will send 40 military and civilian specialists to participate in the international operation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Western countries are increasing their military presence in the region and trying to ensure the security of maritime transport, writes bb.lv. It is expected that after the meeting, coalition participants will announce the specific forces and resources they are ready to send to participate in the mission.