Trump calls on UK to send warships to keep strait of Hormuz open
Trump calls on UK to send warships to keep strait of Hormuz open
US President Donald Trump has urged the United Kingdom to deploy naval forces to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil trade. The strait, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, facilitates the passage of roughly 20 million barrels of oil daily, according to last year’s figures. Recent tensions with Iran have raised concerns about its potential to disrupt this vital channel.
Following US and Israeli strikes that targeted Iran’s military infrastructure two weeks ago, multiple vessels navigating the strait have faced attacks. These incidents have effectively narrowed the passage, causing oil prices to surge and intensifying economic pressure worldwide. Trump emphasized the need for international cooperation to ensure its security, highlighting the strategic importance of the waterway.
“Many Countries, especially those who are affected by Iran’s attempted closure of the Hormuz Strait, will be sending War Ships, in conjunction with the United States of America, to keep the Strait open and safe,” Trump stated in a recent post. “We have already destroyed 100% of Iran’s Military capability, but it’s easy for them to send a drone or two, drop a mine, or deliver a close range missile somewhere along, or in, this Waterway, no matter how badly defeated they are.”
Iran dismissed claims of its military being decimated, calling them “fabricated lies.” A Ministry of Defence spokesperson added: “As we’ve said previously, we are currently discussing with our allies and partners a range of options to ensure the security of shipping in the region.”
Contrasting Statements and Political Dynamics
Trump’s appeal to the UK contrasts with his earlier criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Last week, he accused Starmer of hesitating to join the conflict after the US had already achieved victory. “The United Kingdom, our once Great Ally, maybe the Greatest of them all, is finally giving serious thought to sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East,” he wrote. “That’s OK, Prime Minister Starmer, we don’t need them any longer – But we will remember. We don’t need people that join Wars after we’ve already won!”
Starmer had previously defended his decision to avoid direct involvement in the military campaign, which resulted in the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This week, he told MPs: “President Trump has expressed his disagreement with our decision not to get involved in the initial strikes, but it is my duty to judge what is in Britain’s national interest.”
“One way or another, we will soon get the Hormuz Strait OPEN, SAFE, and FREE!” Trump concluded, underscoring his determination to restore the waterway’s functionality through continued military action.
