- Sir Keir Starmer has said his government must “remake our country” to build resilience against global shocks, particularly amid the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict.
- He is visiting Gulf allies this week to discuss international efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had blocked in retaliation to US strikes, causing global oil prices to soar.
- Writing in The Guardian, Sir Keir emphasised the need for Britain to strengthen its energy, defence, and economic security, and to rebuild European alliances to avoid being “at the mercy of events abroad”.
- Sir Keir spoke with Donald Trump about a “practical plan” for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz following a conditional ceasefire, having previously criticised Trump for contributing to rising UK bills.
- Despite a conditional ceasefire, the Strait of Hormuz's status remains uncertain, with Sir Keir insisting on “toll-free navigation” for vessels, following Iran's re-closure after Israel's bombardment of Beirut.
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