In the latest development of the Strait of Hormuz crisis, representatives from 49 states at the Hormuz Conference in Paris agreed on a defensive military mission to secure the strait. France and the UK will lead, with Germany and Italy focusing on mine clearance. Iran has conditionally lifted its blockade pending the Lebanon ceasefire.
The Hormuz Conference in Paris, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, marks a key step following recent ceasefires in the region, including between the US, Israel, and Iran. Just before the meeting, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtschi announced the Strait of Hormuz was temporarily open again, conditional on the Lebanon ceasefire holding. Macron described this as a 'message of hope' but stressed the need for caution.
Attendees demanded the strait's permanent, unconditional opening under international maritime law. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and others underscored European unity, with Merz noting surprise at the readiness for military steps. The mission will be defensive and commence post-ceasefire.
France and the UK will lead, with Starmer calling the talks productive and scheduling further planning in London. Germany and Italy intend to contribute to mine clearance operations, pending UN resolutions, government approvals, and parliamentary mandates.
US President Donald Trump criticized NATO allies on his platform, deeming their help unnecessary and the alliance 'useless.' Merz highlighted continued diplomacy, welcomed the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, and called on Hezbollah and Israel to support lasting peace.
