UK will not join Trump’s blockade of Iran’s ports in the Strait of Hormuz
UK Will Not Participate in Trump’s Blockade of Iran’s Ports in the Strait of Hormuz
The United Kingdom has decided not to take part in the US military’s plan to block Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the BBC. While UK naval vessels and personnel will not be used to enforce the restriction, the country’s minesweepers and anti-drone systems will continue operating in the region.
US Blockade and UK Position
Following failed negotiations with Iran, the United States declared a blockade of the strait. This move aims to prevent ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports, including those in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. A UK government representative stated:
“We continue to support freedom of navigation and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, which is critical for the global economy and to stabilize costs for domestic consumers.”
President Donald Trump announced the blockade during a press conference in Islamabad, where US and Iranian negotiators had previously met. He emphasized that the action would be taken “impartially” and that commercial mariners would receive formal notices before the measures are enforced. Trump also mentioned that NATO members would assist in the effort, though he did not specify which countries.
“I understand the UK and a few other nations are sending minesweepers,” Trump remarked, highlighting the alliance’s potential role. The strait, a vital route for global oil and LNG, has been effectively closed by Iran since Israeli-US strikes began on 28 February. This disruption has led to a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude oil surpassing $100 per barrel.
UK Diplomatic Efforts
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has consistently opposed direct military involvement in the conflict. Instead, he has called for de-escalation and the re-opening of the waterway to ease pressure on global markets. In a recent conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Starmer stressed the importance of collaborating with a broad group of partners to maintain open sea routes.
A UK government spokesperson reiterated the need for a coalition to protect maritime access, adding that vessels transiting the strait “must not be subject to tolling” after Iran reportedly began charging $2 million in transit fees for tankers. Though the UK was not part of the initial US-Iran talks, Starmer warned against further escalation in the Middle East.
Last week, the prime minister visited four Gulf nations as part of efforts to strengthen ties with regional allies. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to travel to Washington for the IMF meeting, advocating for the restoration of the Hormuz shipping channel. The UK remains focused on diplomatic solutions to ensure uninterrupted trade flows.
