France and the United Kingdom have reached an agreement with Oman to work together to restore safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a joint press release from UK and French leadership on Friday.
The statement, issued by French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, detailed that the joint effort will work to ensure that Oman’s “sovereign territorial waters are safe for navigation.”
As part of the agreement, Macron and Starmer stated that they are ready to deploy the broader Multinational Military Mission to support freedom of navigation through the waterway.
“The Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for the global economy. Restoring safe transit for ships of all nations through the Strait is a matter of global concern,” the statement emphasized.
The two nations also reaffirmed their shared commitment to upholding regional stability in the Middle East and their willingness to maintain cooperation with partner states to support freedom of navigation and international law.
On Thursday, Starmer met with Oman’s Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik Al to discuss efforts in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to a press release from Starmer’s office, they also discussed the importance of reassuring the shipping industry about the safety of transit through the strait.
The two leaders agreed to work closely together on the issue, with Starmer emphasizing that Oman’s support is vital for restoring safe navigation in the region.
Starmer also expressed his gratitude for Omani mediation efforts that contributed to the recently signed US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding and reaffirmed his solidarity with Oman.
