US Navy to consider force if Strait of Hormuz remains closed

Countries Gather to Discuss Iran’s Blockade of Strait of Hormuz

A meeting of 40 countries, hosted by the United Kingdom, took place on Thursday to discuss the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. The gathering aimed to address concerns about the global economy and maritime trade.

The blockade, which began after a joint US-Israeli military operation in late November, has resulted in approximately 3,000 vessels being unable to transit the waterway. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (RGC) has allowed some vessels to pass through, but many remain stranded.

Representatives from various countries attended the meeting, including Hassan Ahmadian, an associate professor at the University of Tehran, and Rockford Weitz, director of the maritime studies program at Tufts University’s Fletcher School. Craig Murray, a maritime specialist and former head of the UK’s Foreign Office Maritime Section, also participated in the discussion.

The meeting yielded no concrete agreements or resolutions, but did acknowledge the need for further consultations among participating countries. The gathering highlighted the importance of addressing the blockade and its impact on global trade and economic stability.

Source: Al Jazeera