Starmer speaks to Trump about importance of reopening Strait of Hormuz
Starmer Convenes with Trump on Reopening Hormuz Strait
Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed the urgent need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz with U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasizing its role in stabilizing global maritime trade, Downing Street confirmed. This exchange follows Trump’s push for the UK and other nations to deploy naval forces to the Gulf to safeguard the oil transit route, which has been largely blocked since the U.S. and Israel’s conflict with Iran began two weeks prior.
UK Assessing Strategies to Restore Shipping Access
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband told the BBC that the UK is evaluating “all viable measures” to reestablish passage through the strait, collaborating with the U.S. and other allies. The closure of Hormuz has severely disrupted global supply chains and spiked energy costs, with approximately 20% of the world’s oil typically passing through the channel. Several vessels have been targeted while navigating the strait, and mines are suspected to have been deployed to further impede traffic.
“Iran’s actions have created a significant threat to international shipping, and reopening the strait is essential to alleviate global economic strain,” stated a Downing Street spokesperson.
Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, reiterated that the country will maintain its blockade as a tool for exerting political and economic pressure on the U.S. Starmer also expressed sympathy for American military personnel who have been casualties of the conflict, pledging continued dialogue with Trump.
UK’s Role in the Crisis
Miliband highlighted the strait’s reopening as a top priority, mentioning the potential use of mine-hunting drones. When asked about deploying ships or drones, he stated, “Every feasible solution to secure the passage is under review with our allies.” He stressed that resolving the conflict itself is the most effective path to restoring normalcy.
Claire Coutinho, the shadow energy secretary, suggested the UK should deploy ships or drones to the region if it aligns with national interests. She argued that reopening trade routes and protecting overseas assets are vital for the UK’s strategic goals, noting that the Conservative Party might have expedited U.S. access to UK military bases compared to Labour.
Political Divisions Over Intervention
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urged caution, opposing the dispatch of UK ships to the Gulf. He criticized Trump’s leadership as “reckless” and questioned whether the U.S. president fully grasps the conflict’s implications. Meanwhile, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that 20 million barrels of oil traversed Hormuz daily in 2025, representing nearly $600 billion in annual trade.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the strait remains accessible to non-enemy vessels, welcoming talks on ensuring safe passage. He mentioned several nations have reached out, though their identities were not disclosed. Tehran has warned that any ship linked to the U.S. or Israel could be targeted, with 16 vessels—including tankers—reported attacked near the route so far.
Since the conflict erupted on 28 February, oil prices surged from $71 per barrel to nearly $120, though they have since dipped and still linger above pre-war levels. The ongoing tensions highlight the strait’s strategic significance as a hub for energy and other commodities like helium and sulphate.
