Britain will make a wide-ranging military contribution to an international mission to safeguard shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, the UK ambassador to the US has announced. Sir Christian Turner revealed the pledge at a gathering in Washington, stating that the multinational effort, co-led by the UK and France, aims to protect vessels navigating the critical Gulf waterway once the conflict with Iran has ended.
The initiative was unveiled at talks in Paris involving nearly 50 nations, demonstrating global resolve to prevent tolls or restrictions on the shipping lane, through which one fifth of the world's oil and gas supplies are transported. Around 12 countries have so far committed to joining the mission, which will be defensive in nature, protecting merchant vessels and conducting mine clearance operations.
Sir Christian said military planning is under way, with a conference early next week to establish a clear command and control structure. The move follows Iran's announcement that it has reopened the strait to shipping as part of a cessation of hostilities in the Middle East. Iran had effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz since the US-Israeli bombing campaign commenced at the end of February, driving up global energy prices.
The ambassador emphasised that the mission is not a Nato operation, despite US President Donald Trump's criticism of the alliance. Sir Christian praised Trump's leadership in pushing up defence spending among members, acknowledging that Europe must burden share. The US and Iran are currently in a fragile truce until 22 April, while Israel and Lebanon have a 10-day ceasefire.
