Prime Minister Keir Starmer has acknowledged a 'real sense of relief' in the Gulf following the ceasefire between the US and Iran, but cautioned that significant efforts remain to ensure its permanence. Speaking at the King Fahd Air Base in Taif, Saudi Arabia, Starmer emphasised the need to stabilise energy prices and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been impacted by the conflict.
Starmer, who is meeting regional leaders to discuss diplomatic support for the ceasefire, noted that British military personnel have been acting in 'collective self-defence' alongside Saudi Arabia. He stressed that the UK would not be drawn into war, but would continue to protect British lives and interests, particularly by working to secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The PM's visit comes as the government names City veteran Ian Cheshire as its preferred candidate to chair Ofcom, and Labour pledges £30 million to guarantee a living wage for Scottish artists and musicians. Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan expressed understanding for former Labour voters 'flirting' with other parties ahead of May's local elections, but warned of potential regret under Green or Reform-led councils.
