Speaking to the press on April 13, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that Britain does not want to be drawn into the war with Iran, and affirmed that the top priority is to fully restore the operation of this strategic maritime route.
He said Britain has deployed minesweepers in the area, but declined to disclose details of operations. According to him, the existing military capabilities are focused on ensuring the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The British Prime Minister's statement was made in the context of the US preparing to deploy maritime blockades against Iran's ports and coastal areas, after weekend talks failed to reach an agreement to end the conflict.
The US Central Command said this measure will be implemented for all ships entering and leaving Iranian ports, including ports in the Arab Gulf and Oman Gulf. However, ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz to ports not belonging to Iran will not be obstructed.
US President Donald Trump also declared that US forces would block all ships in international waters if they paid a fee to Iran. He warned that any attack on US forces or civilian ships would be strongly retaliated against.
Meanwhile, the UK continues to maintain its position of not supporting blockades, emphasizing the importance of ensuring maritime traffic and regional stability.
