Trump calls on UK to send warships to keep strait of Hormuz open
Trump calls on UK to send warships to keep strait of Hormuz open
Donald Trump has urged the United Kingdom to dispatch warships to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global trade. In a message on his Truth Social account, the U.S. leader emphasized the need for collective action with the UK and other nations to secure the strait amid ongoing tensions with Iran.
The Hormuz Strait serves as a vital shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, facilitating the passage of approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil. Last year, around 20 million barrels of crude traversed the strait daily. However, recent attacks on vessels navigating the channel have disrupted this flow, leaving the strait effectively blocked and increasing energy costs worldwide.
“Numerous nations, particularly those impacted by Iran’s efforts to block the Hormuz Strait, are planning to deploy warships… We have already obliterated Iran’s entire military capacity, yet they can still strike with drones, mines, or short-range missiles,” Trump stated.
Iran dismissed Trump’s claim of total military destruction, calling it “fabricated lies.” A Ministry of Defence spokesperson noted: “We are currently exploring various strategies with allies to maintain shipping security in the region.”
Trump’s appeal to the UK contrasts with his earlier criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Last week, he accused Starmer of hesitating to join the conflict after it had already been won, suggesting the UK might now be reconsidering its involvement. “The United Kingdom, our once Great Ally, is finally considering sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East,” he remarked.
Starmer, however, defended his decision to avoid direct military engagement in the initial strikes against Iran, which killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This week, he told MPs: “President Trump has expressed disagreement with our decision not to intervene, but it is my duty to assess what aligns with Britain’s national interest.”
