The United Kingdom has confirmed it will not take part in enforcing a Strait of Hormuz blockade, as global energy security concerns intensify following escalating tensions between the United States and Iran over maritime access to one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said British forces will not be involved in blocking Iranian ports as part of the US-led operation announced after failed diplomatic talks with Tehran. However, he confirmed that UK mine-sweeping and anti-drone capabilities will continue operating in the region to support maritime safety.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Starmer said the government’s priority was to ensure the Strait of Hormuz is reopened as quickly as possible to stabilise energy markets and reduce pressure on global fuel prices. He said the UK position was focused on “keeping the Strait open, not shut,” and stressed that Britain was not supporting blockade operations.
The United States announced the blockade following the collapse of talks with Iran held in Pakistan. US President Donald Trump said American forces would begin “BLOCKADING any and all ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” adding that the objective was to prevent Iran from exerting control over the strategic waterway.
US Central Command confirmed that American forces would enforce the blockade “impartially” on vessels linked to Iranian ports across the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. It added that operations would not interfere with non-Iranian shipping, and formal maritime notices would be issued before implementation.
Starmer said the UK possesses mine-sweeping capability but declined to provide operational details, reiterating that Britain would avoid direct military engagement in blockade enforcement. He said diplomatic efforts were underway with France and other partners to form a wider coalition aimed at protecting freedom of navigation.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy chokepoint, carrying around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Market volatility increased after the blockade announcement, with Brent crude rising above US$100 per barrel amid fears of supply disruption.
US officials have indicated that other countries, including NATO members, could contribute mine-clearing support, although no formal confirmation has been provided. Starmer said the UK approach was coordinated with allies but remained strictly focused on de-escalation and maritime security rather than enforcement of restrictions.
The UK government has also raised concerns over reported Iranian transit charges on shipping vessels, stating that passage through the strait must remain free of tolls or restrictions. Discussions between London and Paris are ongoing to strengthen maritime protection measures in the Gulf region.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to travel to Washington for International Monetary Fund meetings, where energy security and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz are likely to be key topics in discussions with international partners.
The UK has repeatedly warned against further escalation in the Middle East, as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent a broader conflict that could significantly impact global energy supplies and shipping stability.
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