Sir Keir Starmer has demanded that Donald Trump end his blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the move will drive up petrol costs for Britons. The prime minister announced on Monday that the UK is 'not supporting the blockade' and will not be 'dragged in' to the conflict with Iran.
Speaking to Parliament, Starmer condemned Iran's initial blockade but refused to back Trump's response. He said the UK has convened more than 40 nations to restore freedom of navigation, and will co-host a summit with France this week to advance a multinational plan to safeguard shipping.
The prime minister also stressed the economic impact, stating that the closure of the strait means oil and gas are not reaching markets, leading to higher energy bills. Chancellor Rachel Reeves warned that 'the war in Iran will come at a cost to British families and business' ahead of her trip to Washington for IMF meetings.
Trump announced the blockade after US-Iranian peace talks in Pakistan collapsed, saying US forces would stop tankers from entering or leaving the strait. The move is expected to further increase oil prices, which have already risen due to Iran's earlier actions. The UK has confirmed it will not take part in the blockade.
Education minister Olivia Bailey repeatedly refused to say whether the UK agrees with the blockade, stating only that 'we are not going to be taking part'. She described the potential impact on personal finances as a 'huge concern' and said the government is working to mitigate damage.
Starmer spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron over the weekend, agreeing on the need for a broad coalition to protect freedom of navigation. The UK will host further talks this week, focusing on increasing diplomatic pressure on Iran to reopen the strait.
