Why did the British let their sailors be taken by Iran without firing a shot?

Question

The British Navy is armed. They were boarding and inspecting ships in a warzone during a time of war. They were (hopefully!) prepared for any kind of trouble, why inspect ships outside of BRITISH waters otherwise? Why did they let their sailors be taken without a whimper?!

Answer 1

Lets assume the British actions were legal, and Iran's was not. The British patrols and the Iran's naval patrols would have had visuals on each other daily. It would be easy to take political hostages, If Iran chose to. They had to only close in on the small boats, to win the battle. The fear of friendly fire would keep the war ship from firing. Those on the small boats would be bound by rules of engagement.( not to fire unless fired upon). Capture and withdraw of the British sailors were assured under Friendly fire fears.

Answer 2

If The Navy Were to Fire on Iran Iran would most likely declared war and based on Iranian Influence in the area they could gather many Muslim countries and could even attack British and U.S. Troops in Iraq, and Britain and U.S. would have to move focus of combat away from Iraq to Iran