France, April 14 -- French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will co-chair the meeting to discuss a plan to "restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz when security conditions allow", the Elysee said on Tuesday.

A spokesman for the British prime minister's office said: "The summit will advance work towards a coordinated, independent, multinational plan to safeguard international shipping once the conflict ends."

UK Prime Minister Starmer said Monday that Britain had convened more than 40 nations.

Macron said in early March that France and its allies were preparing a "defensive" mission to reopen the strategically vital waterway. He has however ruled out vessel escorts under "bombings."

Franc...