UK looking at all options to secure Strait of Hormuz, says Miliband
UK Examines Diverse Strategies to Safeguard Hormuz Passage
Ed Miliband, the UK’s energy secretary, stated that the government is evaluating “any options” to ensure the security of vital oil transport routes via the Strait of Hormuz. This declaration follows US President Donald Trump’s recent warning to “open the channel one way or another” and his call for countries like the UK, China, and France to deploy warships to the critical waterway.
Strategic Importance and Rising Concerns
The strait, a lifeline for global energy flows, has faced significant disruption due to Iran’s effective closure. This action has impacted worldwide supply chains and driven energy prices to unprecedented levels. According to the US Energy Information Administration, approximately 20 million barrels of oil traverse the strait daily, representing nearly $600bn in annual energy trade. Other goods such as helium, sulphate, and urea also rely on this passage for international trade.
Political Stances and Operational Plans
“Reopening the strait is a priority,” Miliband said on BBC One’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg program. “We are exploring various ways to contribute, including the use of mine-hunting drones.” He declined to specify the UK’s exact plans, stressing that “ending the conflict is the best and surest way to restore safe passage.”
Shadow energy secretary Claire Coutinho suggested the UK should consider dispatching ships or drones to the Middle East if it aligns with national interests. She highlighted the country’s strategic need to protect international shipping lanes and safeguard military assets abroad, noting that the Conservatives would have expedited US use of UK bases compared to Labour.
Regional Tensions and Escalation
As the US-Israeli conflict with Iran enters its third week, reports indicate at least 16 vessels—including tankers—have been targeted near the strait. Concerns persist over potential mines deployed by Iran to hinder navigation. Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reaffirmed the country’s commitment to blocking the waterway as a tool of political and economic leverage against the US.
International Responses and Leadership Critiques
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the strait remains accessible to non-enemy vessels, welcoming dialogue with nations seeking safe passage. He mentioned several countries had reached out but withheld their names. Tehran has also designated tankers linked to the US or its allies as legitimate targets, intensifying fears of further disruptions.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer initially hesitated to let the US use UK bases for operations against Iran but later permitted “defensive” actions targeting Iranian missile sites. Trump criticized Starmer as “no Winston Churchill,” claiming the prime minister sought to “join wars after we’ve already won.” Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urged restraint, arguing the UK should prioritize “de-escalating” the conflict rather than deploying naval forces.
Economic Implications
Since the war began on 28 February, oil prices have surged from around $71 per barrel to nearly $120 on Monday. While prices have since retreated, they remain notably higher than pre-conflict levels. The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported ongoing threats to shipping lanes, underscoring the urgency of stabilizing the region.
