UK will not join Trump’s blockade of Iran’s ports in the Strait of Hormuz

UK to Remain Neutral in US Blockade of Hormuz

The UK has decided not to participate in the US military action targeting Iran’s ports in the Strait of Hormuz, according to BBC reports. British naval assets will not be deployed to restrict Iranian maritime access, though the country’s minesweepers and anti-drone systems will continue operations in the area.

“Our priority is maintaining open sea routes and ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible,” stated a UK government representative. “This is essential for global trade and stabilizing domestic energy costs.”

The US initiated the blockade following unsuccessful negotiations with Iran to resolve tensions in the Middle East. After talks in Islamabad failed, President Donald Trump declared the move, vowing to prevent ships from entering or exiting the strait. US Central Command confirmed the blockade would apply impartially to vessels linked to Iranian ports, including those in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

Trump hinted at international collaboration, suggesting NATO allies would assist in enforcing the measure. “The UK and several others are contributing minesweepers,” he noted, adding that the strait would be reopened “within a short time.”

Approximately 20% of global oil and LNG traffic flows through the Hormuz, which Iran has effectively controlled since Israeli-US strikes began on 28 February. Sir Keir Starmer, the UK’s leader, has consistently avoided direct military involvement, instead pushing for diplomatic solutions to reopen the vital waterway.

During a recent call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Starmer emphasized the importance of uniting partners to safeguard maritime passage. A government statement reiterated this goal, stressing that transit fees imposed by Iran should not disrupt commercial vessels.

Starmer also cautioned against escalating hostilities after the US-Iran talks collapsed. His recent visits to four Gulf nations aimed to strengthen alliances, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to meet with US officials in Washington to advocate for restoring the Hormuz shipping route.