Washington and London discuss plan for meeting to resolve Hormuz crisis

The United States and the United Kingdom are in talks to organise a high-level meeting aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments. Officials from both governments have confirmed ongoing consultations, though no date or venue has been set. The initiative comes after months of heightened military presence and attacks on commercial vessels in the region, which have disrupted shipping and raised the risk of a broader conflict. The goal of the proposed meeting would be to establish a diplomatic framework that could reduce the risk of accidental clashes and restore safe passage for tankers. The Hormuz crisis is rooted in Iran's strategic position along the strait, through which about a fifth of the world's oil passes. Since 2019, a series of incidents—including the seizure of tankers and drone strikes on oil facilities—have escalated into a standoff involving Iran, the US, and other Gulf states. The UK has been a key ally in the US-led maritime security coalition, but has also pushed for diplomatic engagement alongside economic sanctions. Critics argue that a meeting alone cannot resolve underlying disputes over Iran's nuclear programme and regional influence. However, supporters see it as a necessary first step to lower the temperature and avoid a costly military confrontation. The talks are still in the early stages, and both sides are weighing conditions for participation, including whether Iran would be involved directly or indirectly. For the global economy, any breakthrough would bring relief to insurance and shipping costs, while failure could prolong uncertainty in energy markets.