European defense leaders are engaged in advanced planning to deploy warships that would escort merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, according to two senior European officials briefed on the discussions. The officials say the talks are more developed than has been publicly disclosed and that France and Britain are leading the planning effort.
The officials described proposals that would station frigates to shepherd oil tankers and other commercial ships through the narrow shipping lane off Iran's coast. These warships would be fitted with air-defence batteries intended to shoot down Iranian drones and missiles if their use becomes necessary.
Part of the planning includes a deliberate show of force by European naval units, intended to demonstrate military capability and to provide reassurance to shipping companies and insurers about the security of transits through the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials said the work is being done with an eye toward securing waters once the current war ends, even as criticism has been voiced from the United States toward European countries for not joining the conflict. The discussions reflect an effort among European defense leaders to prepare for post-conflict maritime security operations.
The urgency of the planning is underscored by threats that have effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz to normal navigation - the strategic corridor that serves as the gateway to the Persian Gulf and through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments pass. European leaders have publicly stated a willingness to protect shipping after the war concludes, and the officials say internal planning is more advanced than previously reported in public statements.
Those involved in the discussions emphasized the dual goals of deterrence and assurance - deterring attacks through a visible naval presence and assuring commercial stakeholders that transit risks can be managed. The proposed escorts would combine protective screening of individual vessels with public demonstrations of naval readiness to reduce uncertainty for maritime operators.
Note: Reporting was based on accounts from two senior European officials briefed on the planning. Details remain subject to confirmation as planning continues.