UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declined a request from former US President Donald Trump to contribute warships to an allied naval force in the Strait of Hormuz. The request, made public in early March 2026, was framed by Trump as a "team effort" to secure the critical global oil shipping chokepoint amid heightened regional tensions.
The British government confirmed its position, stating that while it remains committed to freedom of navigation, its current strategic focus and naval commitments elsewhere preclude such a deployment. A government spokesperson emphasized ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region as the preferred course of action.
Other European allies, including France and Germany, have also expressed reluctance to join a US-led naval coalition under the proposed terms. Analysts note that the refusal highlights a continued divergence in strategic priorities between some NATO members and the US administration, particularly regarding military engagement in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passing through it. The UK currently maintains a limited naval presence in the region as part of long-standing operations, but has ruled out a significant reinforcement in response to Trump's appeal.
