After US President Donald Trump’s attempt to shift responsibility for unblocking the Strait of Hormuz to allies in Europe, as well as to Japan, Australia, and Canada, failed, preparations for missions to unblock the strait did not stop.

The allies began preparations for the mission without US participation.

As early as March 19, the countries held the first inaugural meeting of the mission in London and signed a joint declaration stating:

“We express our readiness to join relevant measures aimed at ensuring safe passage through the strait. We welcome the readiness of the countries participating in the preparatory measures.”

Canada, which had previously declined a similar request from the US, will join the expanded group. A summit is expected to follow to finalize the details, likely in Portsmouth.

This is our best hope for peace and de-escalation.