MOSCOW, July 29 (HS/RIA Novosti) - European allies, primarily the United Kingdom and France, are refusing to support the United States in patrolling the Strait of Hormuz until there is an enduring ceasefire in its war on Iran, Politico has reported, citing officials.
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth reportedly discussed the joint patrol initiative with his British counterpart, Wes Streeting, in a phone call on Friday. They were joined by French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin on Monday.
American and British officials intend to convene an international conference in London to define the countries' roles and determine which warships will be tasked with searching for sea mines or protecting civilian shipping through the strait. According to sources, progress has been insignificant, and no immediate breakthrough is expected.
On July 8, US President Donald Trump said that the ceasefire reached with Iran on the night of June 18 was no longer in effect. Since July 8, the US military has carried out several attacks on Iran.
The escalation surrounding Iran has led to the de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for oil and liquefied natural gas supplies to global markets, and has also impacted oil exports and production. Due to the situation, most countries around the world are seeing rising prices for fuel and industrial products.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar