US and UK Plan London Summit to Protect Hormuz Shipping

The United States and the United Kingdom are planning a high-level summit in London next week to establish an international coalition to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The initiative follows a renewed maritime blockade by Iran that has disrupted global oil transit and increased Brent crude prices. U.S. officials are requesting that allies provide naval vessels, drones, and de-mining ships for the effort. Expected attendees include U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, alongside defense ministers from other Western and Middle Eastern nations.

Parallel to these diplomatic efforts, Donald Trump has issued escalating military threats. The U.S. President warned that the United States will destroy an Iranian bridge or power plant for every strike against commercial vessels in the strait. Trump further stated he is nearing a decision on a "massive attack" on Iran, asserting that the U.S. is not leaving the region.

Meanwhile, mediation attempts are underway. An Omani delegation visited Tehran on Friday to conduct consultations with Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, regarding the security of maritime navigation and the reopening of the waterway. Reports indicate that Pakistan is also attempting to mediate the conflict. Some diplomats have framed the coalition effort as part of a broader U.S. exit strategy from the confrontation with Iran.