The head of France’s armed forces held a video conference with representatives from 35 countries to discuss ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. France’s defense ministry confirmed the meeting in a statement but did not specify which countries participated. The talks focused on restoring maritime traffic through the vital waterway once regional tensions subside.

According to the ministry, the initiative is entirely defensive and separate from ongoing military operations in the Middle East. The effort aims to ensure safe navigation through the strait, which has been closed due to heightened conflict in the region.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transport route, has significantly disrupted international trade and energy supplies, prompting urgent diplomatic and security discussions among affected nations.