- Sir Keir Starmer, alongside leaders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan, has issued a joint statement condemning Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
- The leaders expressed their "deep concern" about the escalating conflict, urging Iran to immediately cease its threats, mine-laying, drone and missile attacks, and other attempts to block commercial shipping.
- This condemnation follows UK Defence Secretary John Healey's pledge to "step up" defensive support for Gulf states after Iran attacked multiple energy sites, including oil refineries in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
- The Iranian actions have led to a significant rise in Brent crude oil prices, nearing $114 a barrel, and are considered a "serious escalation" that further destabilises the region.
- The UK is deploying forces, with RAF jets flying defensive sorties and air defence systems protecting Saudi infrastructure, while military planners are collaborating with US Central Command to reopen the critical Strait of Hormuz.
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