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

The BBC reports that the UK will not take part in the US military’s measures to restrict Iranian ports, with British naval assets not being used to enforce the embargo. Minesweepers and anti-drone systems will still operate in the region, according to government sources.

“We remain committed to ensuring unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz, vital for global economic stability and reducing domestic energy costs,” stated a UK government official.

The US launched the blockade after negotiations with Iran stalled, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer advocating for reduced tensions in the Middle East. During talks in Islamabad, President Trump announced the move, declaring the US would “blockade any and all ships attempting to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz.”

US Central Command (Centcom) confirmed the blockade would apply evenly to vessels connected to Iranian ports in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. However, ships traveling to and from non-Iranian ports would not be affected, with formal guidance given to commercial mariners before enforcement begins.

“NATO has offered to assist in clearing the strait, and it will be operational again in a short time,” Trump remarked during a Fox News interview.

Approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blocked since US-Israeli strikes commenced on 28 February. Sir Keir has ruled out direct UK military involvement, focusing instead on diplomatic efforts to reopen the waterway as oil prices climb.

During a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Sir Keir highlighted the necessity of a broad alliance to protect maritime access. The UK government reiterated this, stating that “freedom of navigation must not be compromised by transit fees,” after Iran reportedly introduced $2 million charges for tankers using the strait.

Though the UK was not part of the recent US-Iran discussions in Pakistan, Sir Keir warned against escalating tensions after the talks ended in deadlock. The prime minister’s recent visits to Gulf nations underscored efforts to build regional partnerships. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to meet in Washington this week to push for the Hormuz channel’s re-opening at the IMF summit.