Britain's navy to escort UK-flagged ships through Strait of Hormuz

Britain's navy will once again accompany UK-flagged ships through the Strait of Hormuz to provide protection after the US killed Soleimani in an air strike, Reuters reported.

Britain was forced to escort its ships for a time last year after Iranian commandos seized a British-flagged tanker in the Strait.

The killing of Soleimani has raised fears that tankers may be targeted again.

British Defence Minister Ben Wallace said he had ordered the HMS Montrose and HMS Defender to prepare to return to escort duties for all ships sailing under a British merchant flag.