To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the risk of an accidental outbreak of hostilities in the Gulf region; and what plans they have to make military enhancements to UK forces in that region in response to any such risk.
Answered on
7 October 2019
The Ministry of Defence continually assesses the risk to the UK's interests across the world, including in the Gulf. UK force levels are kept under review to ensure the UK is able to deter and, if required, counter threats to the UK or/and our allies. The UK has joined the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC) in the Gulf and deployed additional resource to ensure maritime security is upheld and the free flow of trade is safeguarded. The UK remains focussed on de-escalation. Meanwhile, the UK maintains a steady tempo of exercises and short-term training with our regional partners, demonstrating our commitment to regional stability.