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

UK Refuses to Join US Blockade of Iran’s Ports in Hormuz Strait

The United Kingdom has decided not to support the US military’s blockade of Iran’s ports in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the BBC. British naval vessels and troops will remain active in the region, but they will not be used to restrict Iranian maritime access.

“Our commitment is to safeguard freedom of navigation and ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open, vital for sustaining the global economy and alleviating domestic cost-of-living pressures,” said a UK government representative.

The United States declared the blockade following inconclusive negotiations with Iran over a sustainable peace agreement to reduce tensions in the Middle East, as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for “de-escalation” in the region.

Following a meeting between US and Iranian representatives in Islamabad, Pakistan, President Donald Trump announced the US would initiate a blockade targeting all ships attempting to enter or exit the Strait of Hormuz. Centcom affirmed that US military operations would apply the blockade “impartially” to vessels accessing Iranian ports, such as those in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

“I know the UK and several other nations are sending minesweepers,” Trump remarked, adding that NATO offered to “clear” the strait and that it would be operational again “within a short period.”

Centcom also noted that ships traveling between non-Iranian ports would not face restrictions, and commercial sailors would receive advance notice through an official communication before the blockade commenced.

Approximately 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas traffic traverses the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively sealed since US-Israeli strikes commenced on February 28. Sir Keir has consistently refused direct military participation in the conflict. The UK has instead emphasized the need to reopen the Strait as oil prices climb under Iran’s embargo.

Brent crude oil, the global benchmark, exceeded $100 following the blockade’s announcement. During a prior conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Sir Keir highlighted the necessity of collaborating with a broad coalition of allies to protect maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz. “We are actively coordinating with France and other nations to form a coalition aimed at preserving freedom of navigation,” the UK government said.

The spokesperson added that vessels traversing the Strait of Hormuz should not be charged, following reports that Iran has begun levying $2 million (£1.5 million) in transit fees for tankers.

Last week, Sir Keir visited four Gulf nations, framing the trip as an initiative to strengthen relationships with regional allies. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to travel to Washington this week for the IMF gathering, aiming to promote the reopening of the Hormuz shipping lane.