Britain declines to back Trump's Hormuz blockade plan: PM

LONDON -- Britain does not support a threatened blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday.

Despite "some considerable pressure," Britain would not be "dragged into the war" that is not in its national interest, Starmer told the BBC.

British media reported on Sunday that Britain will not be involved in a blockade of the Strait, quoting a government spokesperson.

"We continue to support freedom of navigation and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, which is urgently needed to support the global economy and the cost of living back home," the spokesperson said.

"We are urgently working with France and other partners to put together a wide coalition to protect freedom of navigation," the spokesperson added.

Trump announced Sunday that the US Navy would begin blocking ships trying to enter or leave the Strait, after peace talks with Iran failed to reach an agreement.

Speaking to Fox News, Trump said "numerous countries" would support the effort, adding Britain and other nations were sending minesweepers.