35 Nations Convene to Reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Excluding US

Australia will join talks with 35 nations, convened by the United Kingdom, to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the government confirmed on Thursday. The meeting, expected to take place at about 10pm AEDT on Thursday, will exclude the United States and discuss "all viable diplomatic and political measures" to secure the waterway and restore freedom of navigation.

The UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced the meeting on Wednesday, stating that the talks will examine "all viable diplomatic and political measures" to get the critical waterway open. This comes as tensions continue to escalate in the region, with concerns over the security and accessibility of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping chokepoint for global trade.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, through which a significant portion of the world's oil and gas supplies are transported. Disruptions to the free flow of traffic through the strait can have significant economic and geopolitical consequences, making it a strategic priority for many nations.

By excluding the United States from the talks, the UK is aiming to facilitate a more inclusive and diplomatic approach to addressing the issues in the region. The Australian government's decision to participate in the talks signals its recognition of the importance of the Strait of Hormuz and its willingness to engage in multilateral efforts to find a resolution.

The talks are expected to explore a range of options, including diplomatic initiatives, political measures, and security arrangements, to ensure the safe and uninterrupted passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Participants will also likely discuss ways to address the underlying tensions and conflicts that have contributed to the current instability in the region.

As a major global economy and trading partner, Australia's participation in these talks is significant. The country's expertise in maritime security and its strategic location in the Asia-Pacific region could prove valuable in finding a durable solution to the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

The talks come at a critical juncture, as the Strait of Hormuz has been the site of various incidents and disputes in recent years, including attacks on oil tankers, seizures of vessels, and heightened military activity. The exclusion of the United States from the talks reflects a desire to explore alternative diplomatic avenues and build a more inclusive international consensus on addressing the challenges in the region.

The outcomes of these talks will be closely watched by the global community, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a strategically important and economically vital waterway that is essential for the smooth functioning of the international trade and energy systems.