A small team of UK military planners has been deployed to US Central Command at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida to help develop options for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route currently blockaded by Iran amid the escalating conflict.
Iran has effectively closed the strait to most commercial shipping, with vessels reportedly coming under attack, raising global energy security concerns and driving a surge in oil prices.
Brent crude rose to about $110 per barrel on Wednesday, with fears it could climb as high as $200 if the disruption continues.
The UK team, which includes the First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, is working on strategies to help oil tankers navigate the chokepoint, amid concerns that the waters may contain mines and other hazards. Options developed by the planners have already been presented to British ministers.
The development comes as US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment over the UK’s reluctance to back US military action, urging allied support to address the crisis.
Despite its involvement in planning, the UK is unlikely to deploy Royal Navy ships to escort vessels while the conflict continues.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard described reopening the strait as “absolutely vital” for global trade and energy security, noting that the UK is working with the US, European allies, and regional partners to find a solution.
He added that resolving the crisis would require not only military measures but also broader support, including insurance and coordination mechanisms.
