Trump administration pitches others to join new coalition to reopen Strait of Hormuz

The Trump administration is seeking the participation of other countries to form an international coalition to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to an internal cable sent this week by the State Department to posts around the world.Dubbed the "Maritime Freedom Construct," the coalition would help with coordinating diplomatic efforts, including aligning on sanctions and information sharing to help with safe transit through the waterway, according to a U.S. official.The cable called on diplomats to announce the formation of the new coalition and "ask for partner participation" by Friday.Guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta enforces the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports against M/T Stream after it attempted to sail to an Iranian port, April 26, 2026.U.S. Central CommandThe Maritime Freedom Construct would take steps to ensure safe passage, including providing real-time information, safety guidance, and coordination to ensure vessels can transit the waters securely, the cable said.The Wall Street Journal first reported on the cable."The MFC's efforts will enhance maritime domain awareness and support the safe passage of commercial operators and their crews," a State Department official said.The United Kingdom and France have already launched a multilateral effort involving 30+ nations toward securing the strait that could eventually involve deploying