Energy secretary says ‘any options’ to get crucial shipping lanes reopened are being looked at by the government
Middle East crisis – live updates
Britain is considering sending ships and mine-hunting drones to the Middle East in an attempt to reopen the strait of Hormuz, Ed Miliband has said.
The energy secretary confirmed on Sunday that ministers are talking to their allies about how the UK can help secure the vital waterway after the US president, Donald Trump, urged Britain and other countries to deploy ships to the region.
About 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait, and its effective closure earlier in the war has sent oil prices rocketing from approximately $65 a barrel to about $100 (£75). The shift has prompted alarm among western countries, with governments facing the prospect of another spike in energy prices and inflation more broadly.
