U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has called on his British counterpart to organize an international summit next week on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz amid growing pressure on the administration of President Donald Trump due to the blockade of the strategic waterway. This was reported by Bloomberg, citing informed sources, according to UNN.
Details
According to the agency's interlocutors, Hegseth discussed this matter by phone with UK Defense Secretary Wes Streeting. A final decision on holding the meeting has not yet been made.
As Bloomberg notes, Washington wants the United Kingdom to host the summit, and Hegseth himself is ready to take part. The possibility of such a meeting was previously reported by Axios.
Iran rejected the ceasefire deal proposed by the US – NYT24.07.26, 07:59
The Trump administration has repeatedly called on allies in recent weeks to help restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which remains effectively blocked due to the escalation of the conflict with Iran. At the same time, a number of countries are reluctant to join such actions, fearing being drawn into war.
US increases pressure on Iran
According to Bloomberg, the UK and other European states have previously stated that they are ready to begin mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz only after a sustainable ceasefire is reached.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also called on the international community to put pressure on Tehran.
"I think the world should unite on this issue. Every country in the world should call Iran and say: you cannot do this, otherwise we will also pursue you."