Lib Dems: Trump's Hormuz blockade is nothing short of state-backed highway robbery

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

Responding to Donald Trump's statement that the US will reinstate the blockade on Iranian ports, Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Calum Miller MP, said:

"Donald Trump’s plan to slap a 20% tax on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is nothing short of state-backed highway robbery. Ambushing global trade at one of the world's most vital chokepoints is an act of economic extortion.

"Extracting tolls like this is a flagrant violation of international law. The UK Government cannot afford to be a passive bystander while a volatile White House tears up the rules of global trade and regional stability, or while the Iranian regime continues to attack vessels in the Strait. Both Donald Trump and Tehran are once again holding the global economy to ransom.

“Keir Starmer must immediately coordinate with our international allies to reject this lawless toll, protect freedom of navigation, and work urgently to de-escalate this rapidly expanding conflict.”

ENDS