The UK will not participate in any blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, it has been confirmed, following claims by US President Donald Trump that allied nations, including Britain, would assist in such an operation. Trump told Fox News that “numerous countries are going to be helping us” and referenced UK minesweepers being deployed.
The British government has indicated it may consider a role in mine-removal operations to secure safe passage through the strait, but this is viewed as distinct from a blockade. A government spokesperson emphasised that the UK supports freedom of navigation and is working with France and other partners to form a coalition to protect the waterway.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described Trump’s rhetoric on Iran as “incendiary, provocative and outrageous”, but added that Trump should be judged by his actions rather than his words. Streeting also expressed disappointment over the failure of US-Iran peace talks, stressing the need for continued diplomacy.
Trump repeated a comparison of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to Neville Chamberlain, criticising the UK’s timing of equipment delivery. Starmer has not directly responded but has urged both sides to find a resolution. Chancellor Rachel Reeves warned that the conflict would impose costs on British families and businesses.
