On April 17, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron chaired a virtual meeting to launch the Strait of Hormuz Maritime Freedom of Navigation Initiative. This initiative, confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs, includes participation from 40 nations, including India, and aims to enhance security cooperation and support critical supply chains. The meeting coincided with communications between Iran and the US, affirming the importance of keeping the crucial shipping route open during the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Starmer emphasized the need for a multinational effort to protect navigation and ensure mine clearance operations to restore global stability. The initiative will also support the work of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in ensuring the safety of maritime operations. Following this meeting, a multi-national military planning summit is scheduled for next week in Northwood, London, to discuss deploying a defensive military effort when conditions permit. The leaders will also address broader issues such as support for Ukraine and European security during their bilateral talks in Paris.