Kathmandu. As the deadline for a ceasefire with Iran approaches, international concern has intensified over the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of maritime traffic. In this context, the meeting between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper further clarified the diplomatic steps ahead.

Rubio spoke by phone with Cooper and reviewed the latest situation related to the ceasefire with Iran, according to State Department Deputy Spokesman Tommy Piggott. The discussions focused on the maritime security situation in the Strait of Hormuz and how to make the international waterways blocked there safe and open.

The two sides underscored the need to immediately restore freedom of navigation in the straits and to ensure an environment conducive for the safe passage of commercial vessels. This is expected to help the global energy supply chain operate without disruptions.

The ceasefire between Washington and Tehran is set to expire on April 22. In such a situation, there is still uncertainty about its future and expansion. U.S. President Donald Trump has no clear opinion on whether an extension of the ceasefire will be needed, but said he was optimistic about the talks so far.

Talking to reporters, he said the talks between the US and Iran were moving in a positive direction. According to him, Iran is now willing to agree on issues that were not prepared two months ago, especially on nuclear weapons. He said the U.S. was focused on reaching a final deal with Iran.

At the same time, European leadership has also stepped up efforts to restore the Strait of Hormuz. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are preparing to hold a virtual meeting of world leaders. About 40 countries are expected to participate in it.

The meeting will discuss measures to secure key sea lanes in support of the fragile ceasefire with Iran. According to the British Prime Minister’s Office, a proposal to form a security mission to coordinate internationally to reopen the straits will also be discussed.

The proposed mission will be defensive in nature and, if necessary, is likely to be implemented through a joint military effort. In addition, collaborating with the International Maritime Organization for the safety of ships and crew has also been prioritized.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to attend a co-hosted meeting with Macron in Paris. The meeting is expected to present the view that it is a global responsibility to immediately and unconditionally reopen the waters.

Analysts say multilateral efforts are imperative to address the Strait of Hormuz as it has a direct impact on energy supplies and international trade. In such a situation, coordination between the US, Europe and regional powers is expected to decisively affect the stability of the ceasefire and the state of maritime security in the coming days.