By George OPARA
The United Kingdom has withdrawn support from proposed maritime blockade of the Strait of Hormuz led by the United States, as tensions between Washington and Tehran remains unabated.
The action was in compliance with the directive by US President, Donald Trump ordering the US Navy to block vessels entering or exiting the critical waterway.
The strategy came after the collapse of prolonged nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran, which reportedly lasted 21 hours without reaching a breakthrough.
The Strait of Hormuz is yet, one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes, enabling nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply.
In a report by Sky News, a spokesperson for the UK government underscored the country’s commitment to keeping open and secure maritime routes rather than involving in enforcement actions.
“We continue to support freedom of navigation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for the global economy and the cost of living domestically.
“The strait should not be subject to tolling. We are actively engaging with France and other partners to form a broad coalition to safeguard maritime movement,” the spokesperson said.
Before now, indications pointed that Washington had sought British support, including the deployment of minesweepers to aid in securing the area.
But UK officials explained that while British naval assets with mine-hunting capabilities are present in the region, they would not be utilized to support the US blockade initiative.
President Trump declared the blockade plan via his Truth Social platform, which he said was a necessary action in response to the breakdown of diplomatic efforts with Iran.
As he agreed that some progress had been achieved during the talks, he insisted that major issues mainly Iran’s nuclear programme is yet to be settled.
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