Donald Trump has called on the United Kingdom to deploy warships to help keep the strait of Hormuz open amid rising tensions with Iran. He appealed in a post on his Truth Social platform, urging the UK and other nations to protect this vital waterway. The strait of Hormuz is a strategic trade route connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. Around a fifth of the world’s oil flows through it, with nearly 20 million barrels passing daily last year. Since US and Israeli strikes on Iran began two weeks ago, several ships navigating the strait have been attacked. This has effectively disrupted shipping, pushing up global oil prices and putting pressure on the international economy. Trump wrote that “many countries, especially those affected by Iran’s attempted closure of the Hormuz Strait, will be sending warships, in conjunction with the United States, to keep the Strait open and safe.” He claimed that “100% of Iran’s military capability” had been destroyed, but warned that Tehran could still threaten the waterway with drones, mines, or short-range missiles. He added that nations such as China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK should deploy vessels to ensure the strait remains secure. Trump said the United States would continue striking Iranian positions along the shoreline and targeting Iranian boats and ships, declaring: “We will soon get the Hormuz Strait OPEN, SAFE, and FREE!” Iran dismissed Trump’s claims, calling them “fabricated lies.” A spokesperson from the Iranian Ministry of Defence emphasized that Tehran remains capable of defending its territory. Meanwhile, the UK has said it is reviewing options with allies to protect shipping in the region. The Royal Navy recently deployed HMS Dragon to the Mediterranean, though experts warn that escorting tankers through the strait remains highly risky. Rear Admiral Neil Morisetti, who commanded British warships in the Gulf during the Iran-Iraq war, said, “The risks are too great at the moment to guarantee the safety of oil tankers in the strait of Hormuz.” Trump’s call for British intervention contrasts with his previous criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Last week, he accused Starmer of joining the conflict “after we had already won” and questioned the UK’s need for aircraft carriers in the Middle East. The UK did not participate in the initial strikes on Iran that targeted the country’s leadership. Starmer defended the decision, stating it is his responsibility to act in Britain’s national interest. “President Trump has expressed his disagreement with our decision not to get involved in the initial strikes, but it is my duty to judge what is in Britain’s national interest,” he told MPs this week. The strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil, and the ongoing threat from Iran has heightened fears of a prolonged disruption. Analysts warn that any escalation could further destabilize the region, with significant implications for energy markets and international security. As Trump presses for international military support, the UK and other allies must weigh the risks of direct involvement against the need to secure a vital trade route. The situation highlights the delicate balance of maintaining regional stability while protecting global economic interests.