A Coalition Proposal for the Strait of Hormuz
A research group based in London has proposed a coalition of countries to manage the Strait of Hormuz. This idea draws from a now-defunct European treaty on coal and steel.
In recent weeks, oil tankers and cargo vessels were anchored off the coast of Oman due to an effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This situation exacerbates tensions, as Iran’s control over the strait impacts one-fifth of the global oil supply.
Shifting Focus in US-Iran Relations
The United States’ conflict with Iran originated from nuclear tensions. However, focus has shifted to Iran’s strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz. Despite assurances from President Trump, Iranian strikes on commercial ships have disrupted shipping traffic. Diplomatic efforts have stalled, with continued military confrontations over the weekend.
Experts warn that attempting to force open the strait amid ongoing conflict is perilous. The narrow and vulnerable passageway poses significant challenges.
The Proposed Compromise
The analytical group advocates for a compromise modeled after an historic treaty that governed post-WWII coal and steel production in Europe. Their proposal involves treating the Gulf as a regional commons. Countries in the region would charge oil tankers a nominal fee for maintenance operations, in line with international law.
This approach could satisfy Iran’s demand for enhanced control while involving all eight Gulf states in maintaining peace.
“If we can’t imagine a world where these countries are administering a nominal fee to do some maritime safety and environmental work, then that is sort of a bellwether of whether there’s going to be some pathway to a more durable regional peace,” said Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, the founder and CEO of the Bourse & Bazaar Foundation.
The proposal underscores the importance of basic cooperation. Without it, addressing larger regional challenges remains difficult.