UK Defence Minister John Healey and French Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin have expressed optimism about significant progress toward reopening the Hormuz Strait. The two ministers made the remarks on Thursday after a meeting with their countries’ military planners. In a joint statement released by the UK Ministry of Defence, they emphasized the need for concrete planning, open dialogue, and firm commitment among allies and partners to turn diplomatic efforts into reality.

The statement also expressed gratitude to countries that have already shown willingness to contribute to the process and voiced confidence that real progress could be achieved in reopening the strait. The Hormuz Strait, one of the world’s most vital maritime routes, has been paralyzed due to U.S. blockades and rising tensions. Against this backdrop, the joint initiative by the UK and France has drawn notable international attention.

The report adds that while former U.S. President Donald Trump previously claimed full American control over the strait, the two European nations are pursuing diplomatic and military discussions to resolve the current deadlock.