40 nations meet on Hormuz crisis but the U.S. is absent

In Short:
– Over 40 foreign ministers met virtually to discuss the Iran blockade’s impact on global shipping.
– The U.S. did not participate, while the UK and others pledged support for safe navigation in the Strait.

Foreign ministers from over 40 nations met virtually to discuss the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz caused by Iran’s blockade, impacting global shipping since February 28.

The United States did not participate in the meeting.UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper chaired the session, accusing Iran of leveraging the situation against the global economy.

Hormuz talks commence

The ministers aimed to mobilise diplomatic strategies to ensure freedom of navigation in the region.

President Donald Trump stated the U.S. would not assist in reopening the strait, urging other countries to secure the passage themselves.

A joint statement from 37 nations, including the UK, France, and Japan, expressed willingness to contribute towards safe passage through the strait. The U.S., China, and many Middle Eastern nations did not sign the statement.

No military action

Despite the urgency, no country is prepared to enforce reopening the strait amid ongoing conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron deemed a military operation unrealistic.

Cooper mentioned that military planners would convene to assess defensive capabilities for future actions.

Normal transit in the strait is around 120 vessels daily, but traffic has fallen by 94% since the crisis began. Maritime incidents have been reported, causing fatalities among crew members.