Proposed Coalition for Strait of Hormuz Control

A London-based research group suggests reviving a defunct European coal and steel pact to form a coalition for shared control of the Strait of Hormuz. This proposal aims to ease tensions arising from the United States’ conflict with Iran over the strategic passage.

Currently, the Strait of Hormuz serves as a crucial route for one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. However, recent Iranian actions have disrupted shipping traffic, despite assurances from President Trump that the passage remains open. Diplomatic efforts have stalled, leading to continued military exchanges between U.S. and Iranian forces in the region. Experts warn that securing the strait by force would be perilous.

In light of these challenges, the research group has presented an alternative model involving the Gulf’s bordering countries treating it as a shared territory. A report from this month outlines that these countries would collectively manage the strait, charging oil tankers a nominal fee for maintenance, in accordance with international law. This plan hopes to align with Tehran’s needs for more control and promote regional stability.

Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, head of the Bourse & Bazaar Foundation, emphasized that achieving even basic cooperation could pave the way for more substantial regional peace efforts. He noted, “If we can’t imagine a world where these countries are administering a nominal fee to do some maritime safety and environmental work, that is a bellwether for regional peace.” Achieving agreement on this level of cooperation is seen as a fundamental step towards broader reconciliation.