UK's Commitment to Reopening the Strait of Hormuz
The United Kingdom has vowed to play its "full part" in reopening the Strait of Hormuz "as soon as possible," according to Sir Keir Starmer. The prime minister stated that he and French President Emmanuel Macron are coordinating efforts among countries willing to protect vessels navigating the Strait, a critical oil shipping route that has been effectively closed by Iran since the conflict began in February.
Speaking to reporters at the G7 summit in France, Sir Keir highlighted the significant impact the closure has had on energy prices, noting it has affected "every household across the country."
While the precise terms of the US-Iran agreement aimed at ending the war have not been disclosed, President Donald Trump has indicated that the Strait will be fully reopened once the initial deal is signed this week.
"It's going to make a material difference to our economies, to stability in the world, and of course we're [G7 countries] all united in saying that Iran must not get... a nuclear weapon," Sir Keir said.
He also mentioned that he had congratulated President Trump on reaching the deal with Iran, describing it as "a really important breakthrough."
On Sunday, Sir Keir further stated that the UK would support the agreement by "standing up the defensive, independent multilateral mission" to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz if necessary, including offering assistance in clearing mines.
The Middle East conflict began after the US and Israel launched extensive strikes on Iran, resulting in the death of Iran's supreme leader on 28 February. Iran responded with attacks on Israel and US-allied Gulf states and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz.
Ukraine and G7 Summit Discussions
Another key topic at the G7 summit is the ongoing war in Ukraine. Sir Keir is expected to hold bilateral discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later during the summit.
The UK government has announced a new package of 70 sanctions targeting Russia, aimed at "choking off" the Kremlin's war effort. These sanctions focus on Moscow's shadow fleet, financial networks, and military supply chains.
"There is real unity among G7 leaders on Ukraine," Sir Keir said, adding that Ukraine is regaining territory and inflicting significant losses on Russian occupying forces.
Political Context Ahead of Makerfield By-Election
The G7 summit takes place ahead of the key by-election in Makerfield scheduled for Thursday. When questioned about the possibility of a leadership challenge should Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham win the seat, Sir Keir emphasized that he has been granted a five-year mandate to "bring back the change that people desperately need."
"I really don't think we should be putting the country into the chaos of a leadership election, but if there is one, I intend to fight it," he told Times Radio.
