UK and France coordinate naval mission for Strait of Hormuz security

The United Kingdom and France are hosting an international videoconference in London involving representatives from over 40 countries to coordinate a defensive mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The initiative aims to protect commercial shipping, restore safe navigation, and potentially conduct mine-clearing operations. This effort responds to rising regional tensions that have disrupted global energy markets and increased maritime insurance costs. The UK has deployed the HMS Dragon, while France has positioned the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in the region to support these objectives. The mission is explicitly described by British authorities as strictly defensive in nature. However, the project faces challenges, as Iran has publicly cautioned against the deployment of foreign naval forces in the area. The talks are part of a broader series of recent diplomatic and military actions taken to address ongoing maritime instability.