The United Kingdom will not participate in the military blockade of Iranian ports announced by Donald Trump, according to reports. British naval ships and troops will not be deployed for the operation, although UK minesweepers and anti-drone systems will continue their existing roles in the region. A government spokesperson reaffirmed support for freedom of navigation and stressed the need to keep the Strait open to stabilise the global economy.

The US move follows failed talks with Iran in Islamabad, after which Trump declared that American forces would begin blockading ships entering or leaving Iranian ports through the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump suggested that allied nations, including the UK, might assist, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has continued to push for de-escalation and ruled out direct military involvement.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route, handling nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. Rising tensions and Iran’s restrictions on the waterway have already pushed oil prices higher, with Brent crude crossing $100, increasing pressure on global markets and cost-of-living concerns worldwide.

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