UK's Starmer Says Britain Will Not Support US Blockade of Strait of Hormuz
LONDON (Afghan Verified) — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on Monday that Britain will not support a U.S.-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need to keep the vital waterway open for global energy security and avoid escalation into wider conflict with Iran.
Starmer's remarks highlight divisions among Western allies amid rising tensions in the Gulf. He said the UK is focusing diplomatic and security efforts on de-escalation and ensuring freedom of navigation through the strait.
The comments follow a U.S. announcement of plans for a naval blockade of Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz. According to Khaama Press, U.S. President Donald Trump made the announcement after failed peace talks in Islamabad. Pajhwok Afghan News reported that the U.S. military, via CENTCOM, outlined the blockade starting April 13, with Trump warning on social media that U.S. forces would intercept vessels paying what he called "illegal tolls" to Iran and retaliate against any attacks.
Starmer stressed that the Strait of Hormuz must remain "fully open," underscoring London's priority on preventing broader conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between Iran and Oman, handles about 20% of the world's oil trade, making it critical for global energy supplies.
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Where reports agree
- Keir Starmer stated UK will not support US-led blockade of Strait of Hormuz
- Strait of Hormuz must remain open
- UK prioritizing de-escalation and freedom of navigation
- US plans naval blockade after Islamabad talks
Where reports differ
- Specific details of US blockade announcement (Khaama: Trump announcement post-peace talks collapse; Pajhwok: CENTCOM statement and Trump social media post)
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