The US commander of naval forces tells Congress that UK help in the Strait of Hormuz is “appreciated at an appropriate time.” Admiral Brad Cooper says that military-level discussions have taken place regarding a planned European-led defensive mission in the region. According to the reports, Cooper’s comments are delivered during his appearance before Congress, where he addresses the coordination and planning around the security posture in the Strait of Hormuz. Multiple outlets report the same core message: that cooperation with the UK is recognized, and that consultations at a military level have occurred ahead of the proposed European-led operation. The Belfast Telegraph coverage mirrors the other articles in attribution and wording, though it provides no additional detail in the provided excerpt. The overall reporting indicates that the US views the UK’s role as part of broader allied efforts and that coordination is ongoing as planners move forward with the defensive mission concept. No further operational details are included in the supplied summaries.