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The UK foreign secretary is set to urge for the complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz later on Thursday, following warnings from the Iranian navy that ships passing through without authorization risked being attacked. During her annual address outlining the UK’s foreign policy priorities, Yvette Cooper will advocate for Lebanon to be included in the ceasefire agreement arranged between the US, Israel, and Iran.
Although the UK has not directly participated in attacks against Iran, government officials are eager to leverage diplomatic influence to help restore access to this crucial maritime passage, which Tehran has effectively blocked. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is currently visiting Gulf allies and recently met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who expressed agreement on the importance of establishing lasting peace in the region.
In her speech, Cooper is expected to highlight the global impact of the ongoing conflict, noting how it has driven up prices for food and petrol in the UK. She will call for the Strait of Hormuz to remain toll-free and accessible, responding to reports that Iran might demand payments from vessels seeking safe passage. Cooper will emphasize the need to prevent any further escalation, stating, “There is considerable work to do and we support the negotiations,” while making clear that British ministers understand the ultimate decisions rest with the US and Israel.
The foreign secretary will reinforce the point that the deliberate closure of the Strait, a vital artery of the world economy, affects people far beyond the region. She will stress that the Strait is an international shipping lane, which no single country has the right to close under international maritime law. As part of these efforts, Cooper will visit the International Maritime Organization to show UK support for its work in assisting ships and seafarers currently stranded in the area. Reiterating the need for the Strait’s full and unconditional reopening, she will declare it essential not only for any ceasefire but also for the long-term stability of the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the US has frequently criticized its allies for a perceived lack of commitment in securing this critical shipping corridor and supporting its military goals, putting pressure on countries like the UK to contribute without becoming embroiled in the broader conflict. Iran, responding to the US-led war against it and Israel, has launched attacks on multiple vessels, disrupting crucial energy exports and causing a sharp rise in global fuel prices. Before the ceasefire was announced on Wednesday, former US President Donald Trump urged other nations to “build up some delayed courage” to help reopen the vital route
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