UK to urge full reopening of Strait of Hormuz

UK to urge full reopening of Strait of Hormuz

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will advocate for the complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz later this week, following warnings from the Iranian navy that vessels without prior approval risked being targeted. Her remarks will come during an annual address on foreign policy, where she will also push for Lebanon’s inclusion in a ceasefire arrangement between the US and Israel.

The UK, though not directly involved in the attacks on Iran, aims to leverage its diplomatic influence to ensure the critical shipping channel is restored. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s recent visit to Gulf allies included a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who concurred on the necessity of a sustainable peace agreement.

Cooper will highlight the far-reaching consequences of the conflict, noting that it has impacted “every country on every continent.” She will stress that the rising costs of fuel and food in the UK are a direct result of the disruption. Additionally, she will argue for toll-free access to the strait after reports of ships being required to pay Iran for safe passage.

“No country can close these routes – it goes against the fundamental principles of the law of the sea,” Cooper will assert, emphasizing the Strait’s role as a vital global transit artery.

In her speech, the foreign secretary will urge the US and Israel to finalize a ceasefire that incorporates Lebanon, stating, “There is considerable work to do and we support the negotiations,” while insisting that the war must not resume.

Cooper will also visit the International Maritime Organization on Thursday, endorsing its initiatives to assist ships stranded in the waterway. She will reiterate that the unblocked passage of the Strait should be a key component of both the current truce and the region’s long-term stability.

Last week, the UK led discussions with over 40 nations to resolve the strait’s blockage, with all parties agreeing that the conflict must conclude first. Cooper noted that Iran had effectively “hijacked” the route to “hold the global economy hostage” after a summit where the US was absent.

Meanwhile, the US has criticized its allies for insufficient support in securing the strait, prompting the UK and others to reconsider their contributions without escalating into broader conflict. Iran’s attacks on vessels have already disrupted energy exports and driven up international fuel prices.

Before the ceasefire announcement, former US President Donald Trump claimed that other nations should “build up some delayed courage” to reopen the route, underscoring the geopolitical stakes of the situation.