Sir Keir Starmer will assert that reopening the Strait of Hormuz constitutes a "global responsibility" as he co-hosts a gathering of world leaders in Paris on Friday. The critical shipping channel, which facilitates approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply, was sealed by Iran in response to military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel.
US Blockade and International Response
In a retaliatory move, US President Donald Trump has initiated a blockade of Iran's oil ports, aiming to cripple Tehran's fossil fuel revenues. Stephen Miller, a senior advisor, has cautioned that this US obstruction could persist "indefinitely" unless Iran reaches a diplomatic agreement with the Trump administration.
Sir Keir is scheduled to arrive in Paris late on Friday morning to participate in a virtual meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, followed by an in-person lunch. The summit is anticipated to include representatives from around 40 nations, alongside the International Maritime Organisation, to address the escalating crisis.
Starmer's Statement on Global Stability
The Prime Minister is poised to address the assembly, stating: "The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again." He will further emphasise, "Emmanuel Macron and I are clear in our commitment to establish a multinational initiative to protect freedom of navigation."
Sir Keir will underscore the necessity to "reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance operations to ensure a return to global stability and security." He will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton, highlighting the UK's concerted diplomatic and military efforts.
Focus on Ceasefire and Future Planning
The discussions will concentrate on bolstering the US-Iranian ceasefire and formulating a strategy to guarantee the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible to shipping post-conflict. Downing Street has confirmed that preparations for a joint defensive operation are underway, with the intention of deploying a combined military force as soon as circumstances permit.
Following Friday's conference, a multinational military planning summit is slated to occur at the Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, north-west London, next week. This sequential approach aims to translate diplomatic dialogue into actionable defence measures.
Diplomatic Offensive and Regional Visits
Concurrently, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is embarking on her own diplomatic campaign ahead of the US-Iran ceasefire's expiration on Tuesday. Her itinerary includes visits to Turkey, the Gulf region, and Japan, seeking to garner international support and de-escalate tensions through multilateral engagement.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has precipitated significant disruptions to global energy markets and trade routes, amplifying economic uncertainties. Sir Keir's advocacy for a coordinated international response reflects broader concerns over maritime security and the free flow of commerce, which are pivotal to worldwide economic stability.
