BBC Politics
Starmer says UK will not join Trump's blockade of Iran's ports
Britain is drawing a line under U.S. naval strategy in the Gulf, with Keir Starmer confirming the UK will not participate in Trump's blockade of Iranian ports. British forces will nonetheless maintain a presence in the region, deploying minesweepers and anti-drone systems to protect shipping lanes. The move signals London's determination to balance alliance commitments with its own diplomatic calculus on Iran.
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Nigel Farage defends Richard Tice over allegations his firm broke law by failing to pay tax – UK politics live
Nigel Farage has moved to defend Reform UK deputy Richard Tice amid allegations that Tice's firm failed to pay tens of thousands of pounds in tax on dividends, a claim that threatens to embarrass the party that has positioned itself as an anti-establishment force. The row lands at an uncomfortable moment for Reform as it seeks to build credibility as a governing alternative. Separately, Keir Starmer has signalled support for restricting addictive scrolling features on children's phones, with the government consulting on whether to pursue an Australian-style under-16 social media ban or opt for more targeted platform regulations.
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UK will not join Trump's blockade of Iran's ports in the Strait of Hormuz
Britain is keeping its naval assets in the region but drawing a clear line, refusing to participate in the US-led blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz. UK minesweepers and anti-drone capabilities will remain operational, signaling continued commitment to regional security without direct alignment with Washington's pressure campaign. The distinction matters: the Strait of Hormuz handles roughly a fifth of the world's oil supply, and any escalation in the standoff carries significant consequences for global energy markets.
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Starmer confirms UK will not support US blockade of strait of Hormuz – UK politics live
The UK will not join any US-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer describing the waterway as "vital" to keep open — a clear signal of divergence from Washington on Middle East strategy. Separately, Starmer defended government plans to reshape Britain's relationship with the EU through new legislation that could align the UK with single market rules, bypassing a standard parliamentary vote. The dual announcements mark a consequential week for British foreign and trade policy.
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UK will not join any Trump blockade of strait of Hormuz
The UK has ruled out participation in any US-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, distancing itself from Donald Trump's claim that Nato allies would join American efforts to "clean out" the waterway. Britain is, however, open to a narrower role in mine-clearing operations — a distinction officials are careful to draw. The divergence signals early friction between London and Washington over the scope and legality of potential military action in one of the world's most critical shipping lanes.
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