US president Donald Trump has warned NATO allies they face a “very bad” future if they do not help reopen the blockaded Strait of Hormuz — a vital shipping lane that carries around a fifth of the world’s oil.
Mr Trump said countries heavily dependent on energy imports should respond to his request to send naval vessels to escort tankers through the waterway, a move the UK government has so far declined.
“If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of Nato,” he said.
The US president singled out the UK for criticism, telling the Financial Times: “When I asked for them to come, they didn’t want to come”.
Mr Trump has urged Britain, China, France, Japan and South Korea to take part in what he described as a “team effort” to escort oil tankers through the strait.
The strategic shipping route — which connects the Persian Gulf to global markets — has faced sustained attacks from Iran since the start of the US-Israel military campaign on February 28, halting much of the traffic and causing disruption across global energy markets.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer discussed the importance of reopening the strait during a phone call with Mr Trump on Sunday night. According to Downing Street, he also spoke with Canadian prime minister Mark Carney.
Several allies have already indicated reluctance to participate. Japan and Australia said they would not send naval vessels, while South Korea said it would carefully review the US president’s request.
Mr Trump also suggested his planned trip to China later this month could be postponed if Beijing does not provide assistance, after Iran said Chinese ships would be permitted to use the strait.
Brent crude, the most important benchmark for global prices, rose on Sunday to top $106 a barrel, before easing slightly early today.