Australia joins UK-France naval mission in Hormuz

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The United Kingdom and France are advancing plans for a naval mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz, with Australia confirming its participation.Defence ministers from over 40 countries convened virtually, co-chaired by UK Defence Secretary John Healey and French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin, to discuss military contributions.

Naval mission planned

The initiative originated from an April summit in Paris led by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which involved 51 nations and proposed a defensive multinational effort for merchant vessel protection.

Countries involved in the recent meeting discussed their capabilities for demining and vessel escort.

The UK announced the deployment of HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer, to the region for mission preparation.

Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed Canberra’s commitment, stating it would contribute an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft.

Iran responded strongly to the initiative, warning of decisive action against foreign naval presence.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil trade, remains a strategic point amid regional tensions.

Organizers have urged that the coalition operates independently from American and Israeli actions.

Macron highlighted the importance of distinct operations to avoid escalating conflicts related to Iranian shipping blockades.

The timeline for mission activation is uncertain as negotiations with Iran continue.

Participation in the coalition is framed around established freedom of navigation principles.

International cooperation ongoing

The coalition focuses on ensuring maritime security while maintaining diplomatic channels with involved nations.

In the meantime, over 1,500 vessels remain trapped in the Persian Gulf, amidst ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Iran.