UK to urge full reopening of Strait of Hormuz
UK to Push for Hormuz Reopening
On Thursday, the UK’s foreign secretary will call for the complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, following warnings from the Iranian navy that ships without authorization risked attack. This move comes amid ongoing disruptions to maritime traffic in the region, which has raised concerns about global energy supply chains and rising fuel costs.
Lebanon’s Role in Ceasefire Talks
During her annual address on foreign policy, Yvette Cooper will also highlight the need for Lebanon to join the US and Israel’s ceasefire with Iran. Although the UK did not participate in military strikes against Iran, ministers aim to use diplomatic leverage to ease tensions and restore the vital shipping route.
“There is considerable work to do and we support the negotiations,” Cooper will say, stressing that no return to conflict should be allowed. She will argue that the Strait’s closure, described as a “deliberate blocking of this crucial economic artery,” impacts British citizens despite its distance of over 3,000 miles.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s recent visit to Gulf allies included a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who emphasized the importance of long-term stability. Cooper will further assert that the strait, a key international transit route, must remain open to uphold the principles of maritime law.
International Collaboration and US Criticism
Earlier this week, the UK chaired discussions with more than 40 nations on resolving the Hormuz blockage, with all participants agreeing that ending the war was essential. Cooper noted that Iran had effectively “hijacked” the route to exert economic pressure, a strategy that emerged after a virtual summit excluding the US.
“This is an international shipping route, a transit route for the High Seas,” Cooper will add. “No country can close these routes – it goes against the fundamental principles of the law of the sea.”
Cooper will also visit the International Maritime Organization to endorse its efforts in aiding vessels and seafarers stranded in the waterway. Meanwhile, the US has criticized allies for not adequately securing the route or backing its military campaign, leaving nations like the UK to balance contributions without fully engaging in the broader conflict.
Iran’s attacks on ships have already disrupted energy exports and driven up global fuel prices. Before the ceasefire announcement on Wednesday, former President Donald Trump claimed it was up to other countries to “build up some delayed courage” and reopen the strait. Cooper’s push underscores the UK’s commitment to stabilizing the region as a cornerstone of international trade.
