Starmer Tours Gulf to Secure Ceasefire and Reopen Strait of Hormuz

Starmer embarked on a Gulf tour to consolidate the US-Iran ceasefire and push for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

“Starmer visits Gulf to strengthen alliances and secure Strait of Hormuz British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Abu Dhabi today, Thursday, marking the second stop of his Gulf tour after visiting Saudi Arabia yesterday”

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He met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where they discussed the importance of reopening the strait.

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A Downing Street spokesperson said Starmer spoke to President Trump about the need for a practical plan.

Starmer addressed British soldiers, saying there is still much work to be done.

The UK has been leading international efforts, convening more than 40 nations.

Questions remained over what open means for the Strait of Hormuz.

Starmer said ships must have toll-free navigation.

BBC

Yvette Cooper warned trading routes were hijacked by Iran.

Trump posted they better not be charging fees and if they are, they better stop now.

Iran's Fars news agency said the strait was closed again because of a ceasefire breach by Israel.

Starmer's tour came amid public criticism from Trump.

“- The Prime Minister will travel to the Gulf this week to meet leaders of countries who have been in the front line, and will set out his full support for the newly agreed ceasefire - In meetings with regional leaders, he will reiterate unwavering UK support and need for a long-term diplomatic resolution to make sure the ceasefire leads to a lasting agreement - He will hold talks on ensuring the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remains permanent, with the United Kingdom continuing to lead international efforts The Prime Minister is travelling to the Gulf today to meet with Gulf partners and discuss diplomatic efforts to support and uphold the ceasefire in order to bring about a lasting resolution to the conflict and protect the UK and global economy from further threats”

GOV.UK

He was likely viewed in Gulf states as a more predictable partner than a US led by Trump.

Starmer was not expected to visit Israel, reflecting deteriorated relations.

The UK's initiative marked an attempt to move closer to Europe.

The visit underscored the UK's commitment to de-escalation.

The ceasefire triggered a fall in global oil prices and an upswing in stock markets.

London's FTSE 100 jumped by as much as 2.6%.

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Brent crude slid by 14.3% to $93.6 a barrel.

The RAC reported diesel prices had risen 34% since the US-Israeli action began.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed British forces had intercepted more than 110 drone attacks.