Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has warned that Britons may need to change their holiday plans and shopping habits due to the ongoing crisis in Iran, which has disrupted global oil supplies. In an interview with Sky News, he acknowledged the economic impact of the conflict but urged the public not to panic.
Sir Keir said the government is working to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and gas, which has been effectively closed since the US-Israeli bombing campaign began. He confirmed that the UK and France would lead a military mission to reassure ships once hostilities cease, but warned that even after the strait reopens, the damage will persist.
The Prime Minister noted that airlines have assured the government they have enough jet fuel for now, but he cautioned that further disruptions could force people to reconsider where they go on holiday and what they buy. He stressed that the government is holding almost daily meetings to manage the crisis and has reopened a CO2 plant in the North East to bolster supplies.
Oil prices have risen sharply, with Brent crude reaching around $108 a barrel, as hopes for peace talks between the US and Iran fade. President Donald Trump cancelled envoy travel to Pakistan, citing a lack of progress, and extended the ceasefire indefinitely without a permanent resolution.
Sir Keir reiterated that household energy costs are capped until July and fuel duty is frozen until September, but he acknowledged that the crisis will define this generation. He said the UK chose not to enter the war, but must protect its citizens from the fallout.
