European-led mission in the Strait of Hormuz
Meeting in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer say France and the UK are preparing a joint naval mission.
The goal is explicitly defensive: Protect commercial shipping: clear naval mines and maintain freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz
This strait is one of the most critical oil transit choke-points in the world, so even limited disruption affects global energy markets.
Broader European support
Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni confirmed Italy will support the mission.
Germany’s leader Friedrich Merz indicated Germany is also willing to contribute in some capacity.
This suggests a multi-country European security effort, not just a bilateral UK-France operation.
US response
President Donald Trump publicly rejected NATO involvement, using unusually sharp language.
He framed the situation as already “over” and criticized allies, calling them ineffective.
