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Sir Keir Starmer described the ongoing conflict in Iran as an issue that will “define us for a generation” during the final day of his visit to the Gulf region. Addressing concerns about the fragile ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, Starmer emphasized the importance of the Strait of Hormuz in resolving the crisis. The strategic shipping lane has been effectively closed to various vessels, including those transporting oil and fertiliser, since the conflict began, leading to significant increases in petrol and food prices.
Starmer expressed his frustration with the volatility experienced by UK families, who have seen their bills fluctuate due to international tensions, referencing the impact of both Putin and Trump. The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine had previously triggered a sharp rise in energy costs, compelling the former Conservative government to inject billions into support measures for households. Now, with the consequences of the Iran conflict making themselves felt, Starmer’s administration faces similar challenges but has indicated that any assistance would be more narrowly targeted rather than universal.
During interviews, Starmer discussed the diplomatic efforts underway to address the situation at the Strait of Hormuz. He revealed that the UK has assembled a coalition of over 30 countries to develop a comprehensive political and diplomatic plan, while also examining military capabilities and logistics for safely reopening the route. British military personnel have been integrated into US military headquarters, and potential strategies such as using Navy ships to deploy autonomous drones to clear mines from the Strait have been considered. Starmer also addressed recent tensions with the US president, who has criticized NATO members for insufficient involvement and hinted at a possible withdrawal from the alliance. In response, Starmer defended NATO’s importance for security but stressed that European nations must increase their contributions.
Throughout his three-day journey across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, and Qatar, Starmer engaged with regional leaders who showed a strong willingness to collaborate with the UK on enhancing defence and economic resilience. While he did not provide details about how the Iran conflict will change the UK, Starmer has previously argued for greater domestic investment in energy and credible defence capabilities. The ongoing crisis has reignited debates over the UK’s military capacity and dependence on foreign energy. Defence funding had been reduced after the Cold War by successive governments, but although Starmer aims to increase military investment, long-term plans remain postponed due to budgetary pressures. Meanwhile, some Conservative voices have advocated redirecting funds from green energy projects to defence and loosening restrictions on oil and gas drilling. Within the political spectrum, opinions differ on international alliances, with some stressing the importance of strong relations with the US, while others call for a closer focus on European partnerships or caution against overreliance on American security guarantees
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