More than 40 countries are considering a maritime mission to secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

May 11, 2026 (PEN) More than 40 countries are meeting on Monday to discuss their military contributions to a British- and French-led maritime mission to secure commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, should a final ceasefire agreement be reached between the United States and Iran.

The anticipated contributions include mine clearance, maritime escort and aerial surveillance, with the aim of restoring confidence in navigation through one of the world's most important waterways.

British Defence Secretary John Healey, who is co-chairing the meeting with his French counterpart Catherine Vautrin, said: "We are turning the diplomatic agreement into practical military plans to restore maritime security."

Britain is scheduled to participate with the warship HMS Dragon, a destroyer capable of intercepting guided missiles, with the mission set to begin after a permanent ceasefire takes effect or an agreement is reached to end the war with Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz is witnessing escalating tensions amid US restrictions on Iran and accusations against Tehran of targeting oil tankers, which has affected shipping and global energy supplies.