UK considers options to protect shipping in Strait of Hormuz

The United Kingdom is evaluating several options to help defend commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz from Iranian drone, mine, and missile attacks, according to British Defense Minister John Healey. London has discussed the crisis with its European E5 partners (Germany, France, Italy, and Poland) and has asked military planners to assess possible British contributions to maritime security.

Options include the use of autonomous mine-clearing vessels and the deployment of British personnel already based at the maritime headquarters in Bahrain. Healey also indicated that British forces must be ready to evacuate British citizens from the Middle East if the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran escalates. The destroyer HMS Dragon, equipped with advanced air defense capabilities, is already on its way to the region. The minister emphasized that “there is an international imperative to seek a resolution” to the crisis, not least due to its impact on oil prices and the cost of living.

UK considers options to protect shipping in Strait of Hormuz

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