Anthony Albanese to join world leaders in summit discussing reopening of Strait of Hormuz, following Trump criticism

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will join world leaders tonight in discussing how the Strait of Hormuz can be reopened and freedom of navigation restored at the end of the Middle East conflict. The Prime Minister is expected to join 40 other leaders from across the globe for the virtual summit – known as the Strait of Hormuz Maritime Freedom of Navigation Initiative – led by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Kier Starmer. The meeting will commence from 10.30pm. US President Donald Trump will not be attending the virtual meeting, per reports from the ABC. He had earlier accusing Australia of not doing enough to help his blockade of the Strait. “I’m not happy with Australia because they were not there when we asked them to be there,” Mr Trump told reporters overnight. “They were not there, having to do with Hormuz. So I’m not happy, I’m not happy with them.” Mr Albanese on Friday said the government had not received any new requests regarding Mr Trump’s fresh request – quipping that the US President had made clear he had the conflict in hand. “And indeed, President Trump has himself said that he has got this and he has made that position clear,” Mr Albanese said. Mr Trump had previously said the US had “such Military Success, we no longer “need,” or desire” allies’ help and that “WE NEVER DID!” The Strait of Hormuz meeting later tonight will focus on “supporting the fragile ceasefire in the region” and ensuring shipping routes are “reopened and secured” for the long-term efforts to reinforce peace, according to a release from the UK Prime Minister’s office. Mr Starmer is in Paris to co-host the meeting. “Discussions will also include supporting the vital work of the International Maritime Organisation, who will dial into the call, to ensure the safety of seafarers and vessels,” a statement released by the PM’s office continues. “The Prime Minister, who visited the Gulf states last week, has been laser-focused on ensuring all diplomatic, military and economic efforts are being made to support the ceasefire and protect people at home from the impact on the cost of living from the conflict.” Friday’s conference will be followed by a multinational military planning summit at Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood next week.