U.K. Ready to Lead Hormuz Opening

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the country’s willingness to take a leading role in reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He also revealed plans for a meeting of foreign ministers later this week to address the issue. Despite pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, Starmer stated the U.K. would not join the U.S. and Israel in their conflict with Iran. Instead, he emphasized stronger ties between the U.K. and European countries.

Starmer said at a press conference that a group of around 35 nations would first explore all diplomatic and political options to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Once the fighting stops, military planners will then assess how to secure and reopen the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz, currently blocked by Iran, is a vital oil route connecting the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. It carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. On Tuesday, Trump criticized European allies, including the U.K. and France, for not joining the war and urged them to secure their own oil supplies.

When asked about Trump’s threats to pull the U.S. out of NATO, Starmer reiterated the U.K.’s full commitment to the alliance. However, he made it clear that the U.K. would not get involved in the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. “This is not our war,” Starmer said. He emphasized acting in the U.K.’s national interest, despite pressure from Trump.

Starmer also highlighted the importance of strengthening relationships with Europe on issues like security, defense, economy, and energy. While he denied that this was because of strained relations with the U.S., he acknowledged that closer ties with Europe could help strengthen U.K.-U.S. relations.

As global tensions rise, Starmer stressed that the U.K.’s long-term interests require a stronger partnership with European allies and the European Union.