Think Tank Proposes Joint Gulf Control of Hormuz Strait

A London-based research group has suggested that Gulf states form a coalition to jointly manage the Strait of Hormuz, drawing inspiration from a historic European agreement. The proposal, which is not an official policy, references the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), a post-World War II treaty that pooled coal and steel production among six European nations to promote peace and economic integration. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. It is a critical passage for global oil shipments, with about 20% of the world's petroleum passing through it. Tensions in the region have often centered on control of the strait, particularly between Iran and other Gulf states. The research group argues that a shared governance structure, similar to the ECSC, could reduce conflict and ensure stable access. Under the proposal, participating countries would collectively oversee navigation, security, and revenue from the strait. The group did not specify which nations would be involved or how decisions would be made. The ECSC, established in 1951, eventually evolved into the European Union. Its success in fostering cooperation after decades of rivalry serves as a model for the proposed pact. However, the idea faces significant political hurdles, as Gulf states have competing interests and historical disputes. The report is part of a broader effort to explore innovative solutions for regional stability. No government has publicly endorsed the plan.