France, April 17 -- Iran has largely closed the Strait of Hormuz - through which some 20 percent of the world's oil passes - since United States-Israeli air strikes began on 28 February, leading to a surge in global energy prices.

Even with a shaky ceasefire in place, the US is now imposing its own blockade on Iranian ports.

European leaders are concerned that if the blockade continues, consumers will feel the effects through higher inflation, food shortages and flight cancellations, as jet fuel runs short.

The meeting is set to gather some 30 leaders of European countries as well as Asian and Middle Eastern nations, mainly by video conference.

Key European Union players German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Min...