Trump calls on UK to send warships to keep strait of Hormuz open

Trump Urges UK to Deploy Naval Forces to Secure Hormuz Strait

Former US President Donald Trump has implored the United Kingdom to station naval assets in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need to prevent its closure. His call to action came via a post on Truth Social, where he highlighted the ongoing tensions with Iran and the importance of maintaining the waterway’s accessibility. The strait serves as a critical route for maritime trade, linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, and facilitates the transit of approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil. Last year, around 20 million barrels of crude passed through the channel daily, underscoring its economic significance.

Since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran two weeks ago, several vessels navigating the strait have faced attacks, effectively disrupting the flow of oil. Trump argued that despite Iran’s military being “destroyed 100%,” the country remains capable of launching threats through drones, mines, or short-range missiles. “We will soon get the Hormuz Strait OPEN, SAFE, and FREE!” he proclaimed, vowing to ensure the waterway remains secure through coordinated efforts with international partners.

“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 wrote. “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.”

In response, Iran dismissed claims of its military being “decapitated,” calling them “fabricated lies.” Meanwhile, a UK Defence spokesperson noted: “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.” This aligns with the UK’s recent stance of not participating in the initial strikes, which targeted Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump’s recent request contrasts with earlier criticism of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Last week, he accused the leader of hesitating to join the conflict after claiming victory, stating: “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.” Starmer has since defended his decision, asserting it was in Britain’s national interest. “President Trump has expressed his disagreement with our choice not to get involved in the initial strikes, but it is my duty to judge what is in Britain’s national interest,” he told MPs this week.