United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the nation on Wednesday, stating the impact of the ongoing conflict would “define us for a generation” in terms of energy prices. He reassured the British public, adding, “I want to reassure the British people that no matter how fierce this storm, we are well-placed to weather it.”

Diplomacy as the Primary Response

Starmer made it clear that the West’s response to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz will prioritize diplomacy. “This is not our war. We will not be drawn into the conflict,” he stated, ruling out immediate British military intervention despite threats to global energy supplies.

Virtual Summit Planned

To unite international efforts, Starmer announced a virtual summit involving 35 countries, focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that military planning to ensure ship security would only commence “after the fighting stops.”

Trump Criticizes Allies

Former US President Donald Trump voiced strong criticism of allies on Tuesday night via his Truth Social platform. He accused London of failing to participate in “the decapitation of Iran” and Paris of hindering military supply deliveries to Israel by refusing overflight access.

Call for Self-Reliance

Trump suggested that countries reliant on the Strait of Hormuz should “buy from the U.S.” or “build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” He warned that the U.S. “won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us.” He also claimed, “Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!”

Potential US Withdrawal from NATO

The following day, Trump told Reuters he was “absolutely without question” considering withdrawing the US from NATO. However, a 2023 law requires a two-thirds Senate super-majority for such a decision.

France Hosts Separate Talks

France is also leading diplomatic efforts, hosting talks with 35 countries aimed at “restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait.” A teleconference was held on March 26, according to the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and Veterans.

Defensive Focus

The French initiative is described as “strictly defensive in nature,” focused on resuming navigation after hostilities cease. The ministry stated reopening the strait is contingent on “once the intensity of hostilities has sufficiently decreased,” but has not publicly defined the specific conditions required.

Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical oil chokepoint, vital for the energy security of many nations. Few ships have been able to safely transit the strait since the conflict with Iran began one month ago.

Trump's Ceasefire Condition

Trump stated that “Iran’s New Regime President… has just asked the United States of America for a CEASEFIRE!” He added that the US would “consider” a ceasefire “when Hormuz Strait is open, free, and clear,” threatening to “blast Iran into oblivion or, as they say, back to the Stone Ages!!!”