Donald Trump has called on the UK to send warships to help keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid the conflict with Iran. In a post on Truth Social, the US president urged nations including the UK, China, France, Japan, and South Korea to deploy vessels to the strategic waterway, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes.
Trump claimed that the US had already destroyed 100% of Iran's military capability, but warned that Iran could still use drones, mines, or missiles to threaten shipping. He stated that the US would continue bombing the shoreline and targeting Iranian boats until the strait is open and safe.
Iran responded by dismissing Trump's claims as 'fabricated lies'. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said the UK is discussing options with allies to ensure shipping security. However, Rear Admiral Neil Morisetti, who captained British warships in the region, warned that the risks are now 'too great' to guarantee the safety of oil tankers.
Morisetti, who led military escorts during the Iran-Iraq war, told the Sunday Times: 'I think that's why you're hearing people saying we hope to escort the tankers shortly, because it's probably too high a threat at the moment and the risks are too great.' His comments come after the UK sent HMS Dragon to the Mediterranean.
Trump's call contrasts with his remarks last week, when he criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer for considering sending two aircraft carriers after the US had already claimed victory. Starmer has defended his decision not to join the initial strikes on Iran, stating it is his duty to judge Britain's national interest.
