The PM has declined a request from President Trump to send Royal Navy ships to a contested strait as part of a joint effort to reopen a vital shipping lane. No 10 says diplomacy should lead. Several European capitals are also reluctant to commit naval assets amid concerns over escalation and trade risk.

The White House has sent a Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Gulf to protect a vital shipping strait after incidents involving civilian vessels. The force could secure lanes and nearby islands with allied support. Brent crude passed $100 as markets priced in possible disruption.

UK officials say a hostile state orchestrated an Iranian drone swarm incident at a base in Iraq housing British troops. The PM is briefed as Britain and allies weigh steps to deter further incidents, strengthen defences and seek accountability, reaffirming support for personnel on the ground.