British military divers are preparing to conduct mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz if required, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed. The specialists, trained in mine neutralisation and clearance, are being readied to provide additional support in the strategic waterway.
The move follows a second day of talks in London, where the UK also pledged to deploy autonomous mine-hunters as part of a mission to safeguard the strait. This marks a significant step up from earlier considerations of sending a Royal Navy ship or a commercial vessel carrying such systems.
The Strait of Hormuz remains closed amid a ceasefire, with its future uncertain after US President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension. Trump has previously dismissed British naval contributions, referring to Royal Navy assets as “toys” and insisting the US did not need European help.
Iran has stated it will not resume negotiations until the US blockade on the strait is lifted, following the seizure of two ships. Alongside France, the UK has convened meetings focused on ensuring freedom of navigation in the key trade artery and easing economic pressures that have built since the conflict began.
